Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist-Valley View Chapel

01/21/2026

Loretta Gail Loy, a compassionate and faithful soul, passed away on January 19, 2026, at the age of 79. She was born on November 10, 1946, in Sandersville, Georgia, to the late Russell and Lora Certo. She was also preceded in death by a son, Robert Whiteside.
Loretta was a resident of Ooltewah, Tennessee. She was a devoted member of St. Stephen's Catholic Church, where her kindness and commitment to her faith touched the lives of many.
Her legacy of compassion and faithfulness will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Survivors include her children, Lori Csala, Robert (Tathia) Mattila, and Brian Whiteside; six grandchildren, Tommy, Micahl, James, Riley, Carson, and Scout; ten great-grandchildren; and one brother, James Certo.
The family will receive friends from 11:30 - 1:00 on Tuesday. January 27 at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.
Graveside services will follow at 2:00 at Hamilton Memorial Gardens.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com.

01/19/2026

Somchith Nikhomvan, a beloved, brave, devoted, generous, hard-working, loyal, and selfless individual, passed away on January 16, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on March 1, 1938, in Thailand, to the late Chom Nikhomvan and Fy Saysamoud. Somchith made a significant impact on all who knew him.
In his early years, Somchith served as a prominent police captain in Laos, where he was respected for his dedication and leadership. His career was marked by his commitment to justice and his community.
Somchith was a devoted family man. He made the courageous decision to leave his home and career in Laos to bring his family to America, where he worked tirelessly as a laborer to provide them with a better life. His love for his family was unwavering, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
In his personal life, Somchith found joy in fishing, a hobby that allowed him to relax and connect with nature. He also enjoyed traveling the world, walking along the beach, and taking peaceful walks in the park. He and his wife loved gathering with family and friends, cherishing time spent together. Somchith appreciated beauty in all its forms and was a deeply religious man whose faith guided his life.
He is survived by his children, Somkiat, Nikhomvan, Sompasong Nikhomvan, Chindana Nikhomvan, Sonephet Phommatha, and Kanokone Noke Nikhomvan; his grandchildren, Johnny, Sandy, Linda, Andy, Billy, Stephanie, Ricky, Heather, Vannessa, Lisa, Jennifer, Elizabeth, and Nicholas Nikhomvan; and his great-grandchildren, Elijah, Alaia, Levi, Ivan, Everly, Everlyne, Riley, Tatum, and Raiden Nikhomvan. He also leaves behind his siblings, Likkith Nikhomvan, Atith Nikhomvan, Pradab Nikhomvan, and Frank (Bea) Nikhomvan, along with Frank's children, Nikkie, Neesa, and Christina.
Somchith Nikhomvan will be remembered for his selflessness and enduring love for his family. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him.
The family will receive friends at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home Friday, January 23, from 4-6, 7414 Old Lee Hwy, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421.
A traditional Lao service will be held at 9:00 am Saturday, January 24, at the Wat Buddha Manodham Temple, 364 Davis Road, Chickamauga, Georgia 30707. followed by services at 12:00 pm at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 7414 Old Lee Hwy, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com.

01/18/2026

Ronald W Smith, a beloved and cherished individual, passed away on January 16, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on February 19, 1947, Ronald was a devoted husband, a faithful friend, and a hard-working member of his community.
Ronald was a US Navy veteran, dedicating a significant portion of his life to serving his country with honor and distinction. His commitment to duty and service was a testament to his thoughtful nature and strong character.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Cunningham Kay.
For 53 years, Ronald was the devoted husband of Nancy Smith. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership, marked by mutual respect and unwavering support. He is also survived by a sister-in-law, Joyce Racz, and a brother-in-law, Johnny (Glenda) Noblitt, four nieces and one nephew.
In addition to his family life, Ronald was deeply involved in his community. He was a member of the Bethlehem Mornings Ministry, where he served on their board, contributing his time and effort to the betterment of the organization. His commitment to community service extended to his long-standing role on the Chattanooga Beer Board, where he served for many years.
Ronald W Smith will be remembered for his contributions to his family, community, and country. His legacy of devotion and hard work will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
The family will receive friends from 1-3 p.m. at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home on Sunday, January 25, followed by funeral services at 3 p.m. Interment will be at the Chattanooga National Cemetery
Donations may be given in his name to Bethlehem Mornings Ministry C/O Dr. Bill Owens 2684 Churchill Downs Circle, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421
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01/18/2026

Billie Brunson McLeod died at home in Chattanooga, Tennessee on Saturday, January 10th.
Billie Lou Brunson was born on October 28, 1938 in Davis Station, South Carolina to Harry and Mary Brunson. She grew up on the family farm and worked at Dingle’s Grocery Store in Summerton. She graduated from Summerton High in 1956 and Winthrop in 1960. She married Jerry McLeod in 1960 and they spent their married life in Columbia, South Carolina and Chattanooga.
Billie spent her life giving to many individuals and groups including Red Bank Methodist Church, Red Bank and Hixson School PTOs, Girl Scouts, Christian Women’s Club, Symphony Guild, Tennessee Junior Miss Pageant, and others.
Billie was a member of Red Bank Methodist Church and involved in many ministries and activities. She loved God and believed the best way to tell others about Jesus was through her actions. She lived this out through her generosity, thoughtfulness, and unconditional love for those in her life. She had the unique gift of being able to connect with people, no matter how much or how little they had in common. This earned her the title of “best friend” by countless people in her life, including both friends and family members. She was passionate about hospitality and hosted Thanksgiving and Christmas each year for her family and friends. While she was an exceptional decorator and natural entertainer, so much of her joy came from seeing others laughing and conversing around her table. She was a detailed planner who valued organization, yet was also known as the life of the party.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jerome Nelson “Jerry” McLeod Jr; her brothers Jimmy, Steve, and Jerry “Tub” Brunson; sisters Alice Coleman and June Wilson; brothers-in-law, Byrns Coleman, James Vaughan and Charles Weeks. She was also predeceased by Jerry’s sisters, Sissy Weatherford Drew, and Martha Ann Branham; and brothers-in-law, Gene Weatherford, Frank Drew and Sam Branham.
Billie is survived by children and in-laws Nelson and Robin McLeod, Libby and William Camp, and Caki and Billy Thibodeaux. Her grandchildren are Michelle (Sam) Jones, Jay McLeod, Brittany (Carey) Bryant, Kristen (Clint) Landers, Eric Camp, Austin (Mickayla) Camp, Justin Camp, Lee (Alicia) Thibodeaux, Kyle (Rachel) Thibodeaux, and Jake (Audrey) Thibodeaux. Her beloved great-grandchildren are Graham and Noah Jones, Kayleigh and Clara Landers, Jerome and Emory Thibodeaux, Jax and Titus Thibodeaux, and Ann Hollis, Taylor, and McLeod Thibodeaux.
Billie’s siblings are Ginger Vaughan, Lois Weeks, Rose (Frankie) Drose, Ruby (Bill) Livingston, Gloria (Ken) Holladay, and Gayle Brunson; brother-in-law, Joe Wilson (Pam); and sister-in-law, Cindy Brunson; Jerry’s siblings are Robert (Beth) McLeod, and Frank (Beth) McLeod.
Billie donated her body to medical research. No formal services will be held. Memorials can be made to The Therapy Place, 3620 Covenant Road, Forest Acres, South Carolina, 29204.

01/15/2026

Joyce Browning Robinson of McDonald, Tennessee, formally of Memphis was born August 2, 1931 in Milan, Tennessee to Malcolm and Myrtle Martin Browning. She graduated from Milan High School as valedictorian of her class. She always dreamed of being a nurse and graduated from Baptist Memorial Hospital of Nursing, now Baptist College of Health Sciences, attended the University of Memphis and received her bachelor’s degree from Stephens College.
Joyce was a member of Silverdale Baptist Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Prior to moving to east Tennessee, Joyce was an active member of Leawood Baptist Church of Memphis and the Auditorium Sunday School Class. She spent most of her professional life at Baptist Memorial Hospital and after 42 years, retired as Director of Surgical Services. She was active in the Association of Operating Room Nurses and had served on the Advisory Board of the surgical technologist program at Sea Isle Vocational School. She also served as president of Baptist College of Health Sciences Alumni Association and was on the College Board of Directors.
Joyce was married to Paul Robinson for 70 years. They loved to travel, driving to every state in the U.S., including Alaska. Paul and Joyce visited most of the National Parks in the United States and most of the Canadian Provinces. Later in life, they enjoyed going on these trips with their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They enjoyed the numerous do-it-yourself projects for themselves and their children.
Paul and Joyce were loyal University of Memphis fans and season ticket holders for 50 years. They attended all the football and basketball games while living in Memphis, TN. After moving to Chattanooga, TN, they watched the games on television and the internet. They also loved to garden and usually had a large one and enjoyed sharing their produce. Joyce was also a fantastic cook and love to sew and quilt.
Joyce was preceded in death by her husband Paul, an infant son, Keith David Robinson and her brother Bobby Browning of Jackson, Tennessee. Survivors include her son, Kenneth M. Robinson and his wife, Patricia of McDonald, TN; daughter, Paula Robinson Armstrong of McDonald, TN. ; grandchildren, Jason and wife Shannon Robinson, Sarah Robinson Stiner, Erin Bryant, Michael Armstrong and wife Paige Armstrong, both of Memphis, TN.; great-grandchildren, Jacob Robinson, Bentlee Stiner, Kenslee Stiner and Brayden Bryant.
There will be no visitation or services in Chattanooga, TN.
Visitation will be from 11:00 – 12:30 and Celebration of Life service will follow at 1:00 PM (CST) Saturday, January 17, 2026 in the chapel of Bodkin Funeral Home, Milan, TN. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery.

01/14/2026

Lawrence William O’Rear, age 80, of Ooltewah, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
Born on November 6, 1945, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Lawrence was the son of the late Raymond Dewey O’Rear and Mary Frances Petty O’Rear. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved sister, Norma Jean Freeman, and an infant brother.
Lawrence dedicated many years of service to the Electric Power Board, from which he retired. He was a proud member of Brainerd Masonic Lodge No. 736 F&AM and the Alhambra Shrine in Chattanooga. His faith was important to him, and he was a faithful member of Pine Ridge Baptist Church.
In his free time, Lawrence found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing, cheering on dirt track racing, and passionately supporting the Tennessee Volunteers football team. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family.
Lawrence is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Martha O’Rear, of Ooltewah, Tennessee. He leaves behind three loving children: Jacquelyn Moore of Chattanooga, Tennessee; Larry O’Rear (Tina) of Chattanooga, Tennessee; and Missy Fryar (Kevin) of Ooltewah, Tennessee. He was a proud grandfather to Dylan, Tanner, Walker, and Alayna, and a cherished great-grandfather to Hensley. He is also survived by five siblings: Edna Jones (Scott) of Ooltewah, Tennessee; David O’Rear (Paula) of Middle Valley, Tennessee; Tommy O’Rear (Cindy) of Chattanooga, Tennessee; Mary Kay (David) of Ringgold, Georgia; and Margie Sloan of Ringgold, Georgia, along with several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, in the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, with Rev. Sam Cravatt officiating. Interment will follow at Lakewood Memory Gardens – East.
The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service on Thursday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Children’s at www.shrinerschildrens.org.
Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.
Arrangements are by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

01/11/2026

Margaret Richardson Whittle, age 87, of Ooltewah, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 9, 2026.
Margaret was born on September 17, 1938, in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late Morgan Floyd Richardson and Thodosia Elizabeth Jordan Richardson. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Patterson Whittle, and her sister, Mary Anne Hall.
Margaret was fiercely independent and loved traveling the American Southwest. She met her husband, George working in a chemistry lab at the Tennessee Corporation and then worked as a stewardess for Southern Airways, flying aboard DC-3 and Martin 404 aircraft. A lifelong fan of Alabama football, she proudly cheered on the Crimson Tide at every opportunity.
Margaret earned her bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Alabama, where she developed a deep love for Native American history and the stories of the American West. She spent the majority of her life as a devoted homemaker, and her grandson, Luke, was her greatest joy.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Jessica Whittle of Hixson, Tennessee; her grandson, Luke Whittle; her sisters, Marilyn Owen (Alex) of Marietta, Georgia, and Ginger Grantham (Jack) of Walnut Creek, California; as well as several cherished nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Ooltewah Baptist Church, 5514 Main Street, Ooltewah, Tennessee 37363, with Rev. Jeremy Colloms officiating. Interment will be in Tuscaloosa Memorial Gardens in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org or to the American Indian College Fund at https://collegefund.org
Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.
Arrangements are by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421.

01/10/2026

Veronica Lynn Hoffnagle (maiden name Koch), age 59 of Hamilton County, Chattanooga, TN passed away on Monday, December 01, 2025.
Remaining to cherish Veronica’s love and memory are husband Gregory Joseph Hoffnagle; children/grandchildren Amber, Benjamin, and Joshua, and seven grandchildren; parents Richard Koch and Helen Koch (maiden name Murphy); and brother David Koch.
Veronica was born February 18, 1966 in Cheverly, Maryland, the daughter of Richard and Helen Koch.
Veronica was a godly woman who could always bring a smile to a face, see the light in any situation, and helped wherever needed. She loved serving others as a truly selfless servant.
Veronica loved going to the beach with her parents and brother in her youth, and she passed that love on to her family, where they would spend most of their vacations (especially at Cape Hatteras, NC, Dana Point, CA and Stinson Beach, CA).
Veronica married Malcom Douglas Lowry in 1986 with whom she had three children (Amber, Benjamin, and Joshua). After 10 years they divorced.
Veronica remarried Gregory Joseph Hoffnagle in June 1996 and they remained married until her death (close to 30 years).
Veronica especially loved the Lord God and she loved caring for her family as a mother and wife. She selflessly provided a loving, welcoming home, with scratch cooked meals and cleanup from her heart. She was constantly innovating new recipes that would end up in her extensive recipe book. Along with her nutrition degree and healthcare experience, she was the embodiment of “let thy food be thy medicine”.
As a nurturing mother, she also ensured a loving home for the children growing up, sometimes coming home from night shift to sleep only a few hours and waking up to attend a child’s school/class event. She gave her all to everyone in her family, never mentioning any burden on herself. She also home-schooled the children for a few years as she loved them with all her heart. She wanted to give her all to her family and she did that in so many different ways.
Veronica worked as a full time Respiratory Therapist including flight trauma (Hershey Medical Center Life Lion), ICU, natal, and prenatal care. She always sought to be a patient advocate and to treat every patient as her own family. She emanated love and it showed whether at home, in the neighborhood, or at her work. She sought to love like she understood the Lord God wanted her to love.
Veronica’s educational achievements include an Associates Degree in Respiratory Therapy from Washington Adventist University in Washington DC, an Associates Degree in Computer Networking from Harrisburg Area Community College, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Consumer Sciences: Nutrition and Food from California State University, Sacramento.
Her remains were cremated and received by her family.

01/08/2026

Mary Carolyn Ingle Bennett Bullington, lovingly known as Carolyn, passed away on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the age of 88, surrounded by family and prayers. She was living in Carrollton, Georgia, at the time of her passing.
Carolyn was born on July 25, 1937, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, one of seven children born to Herman Franklin Ingle and Margaret Marie Posey Ingle. She grew up in downtown Chattanooga and graduated from Chattanooga Central High School. On Christmas Day in 1954, she married James Robert “Bob” Bennett. They shared 36½ years of marriage before Bob’s passing in June 1991. In 1959, they built a home on Bennie (formerly Bennett) Lane in Ooltewah, Tennessee, where they raised their three children.
On September 19, 1993, Carolyn married Robert Mac Bullington. Together they enjoyed a wonderful life centered around church, family, camping, fishing, and many volunteer activities. Their time together was filled with love, faith, and service to others until Robert’s passing on April 1, 2005.
Throughout her life, Carolyn worked hard and served others. In the 1960s, she worked at the Piggly Wiggly in East Brainerd and later at the Crane Company in Chattanooga. In 1971, she and Bob purchased the Trading Post Restaurant at the corner of Ooltewah-Ringgold Road, which they ran until 1976. After selling the restaurant, Carolyn worked briefly at McKee Foods before finding her long-term calling as church secretary at Ooltewah United Methodist Church, where she served faithfully for many years.
Carolyn had a deep love for the Lord and her church family. In her later years, she enjoyed traveling with friends through the Scenic City travel group and giving back through volunteer work at Parkridge Hospital.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, James Robert “Bob” Bennett and Robert Mac Bullington; her sister, Audrey Jean Ingle Wade; and her brothers, Thomas “Tommy” Nelson Ingle, Joseph Douglas Ingle, and Johnnie Lee Ingle.
Carolyn is survived by her children, Cathy Beaumont (Glenn), William “Bill” Bennett (Donna), and James “Jim” Bennett (Lori); her sister, Frankie Ingle Hyma; her brother, Wayne Ingle; eight grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren.
Carolyn will be deeply missed by her family, extended relatives, and the many friends she made throughout her life in Ooltewah, Tennessee, and Carrollton, Georgia.
The family will receive friends on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Chattanooga Funeral Home – Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the Valley View Chapel, with the service officiated by Dale Gilbert, retired pastor of Ooltewah United Methodist Church.
Honorary pallbearers will be Josh Bennett, Eric Bennett, Mike Estes, Buddy Beaumont, Bobby Beaumont, Chad Carlson, Matt Sherwood, and Jonathan Merrey.
A private interment will take place on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Lakeview Memory Gardens East in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ooltewah United Methodist Church, 6131 Relocation Way, Ooltewah, TN 37363.
Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.
Arrangements by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

01/08/2026

Robert James Race, Jr. Obituary Robert James Race, Jr., of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away on January 3, 2026, at the age of 78.
He was born on August 18, 1947.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Robert J. Race, Sr. and Mabel Elizabeth Durrer Race, and by his brother, Thomas Race. He is survived by his brothers, William Paul Race (Kimberly Kyriakidis Race), Richard F. Race (Lois McConnell), sister-in-law Lisa Race who was married to Thomas, and several nieces and nephews.
An avid reader with a deep love for literature, Robert found great joy in books and lifelong learning. He generously shared that passion through his volunteer service at the Webster Groves Missouri Public Library, where he was a familiar and valued presence. Robert will be remembered for his quiet intellect, love of reading, and dedication to serving his family and those around him.
Memorial gifts can be made to Webster Groves Missouri Public Library.
The family would like to express their deepest appreciation for Robert's care to NHC Chattanooga where Robert resided and to Hospice Chattanooga. Family gives God the glory for allowing Robert to move to Chattanooga, TN and spend his last days surrounded by family.
Arrangements by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

01/07/2026

Tammie Faye Morgan Pickett, age 57, of Harrison, Tennessee, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Monday, January 5, 2026, at her home.
She was born July 20, 1968, in Chattanooga to the late Tommy & Martha Morgan.
Tammie was a lifelong resident of the Ooltewah, Birchwood, and Harrison areas. She was a member of the Freedom Church of God. She was a 1986 graduate of Ooltewah High School and attended Chattanooga State Community College.
She retired from McKee Foods after 38 years of service. During her career there she worked in different departments in the company. The last thirteen years of her career she worked in the Transportation Department as an Administrative Assistant. Her coworkers became her family, and her passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and so many more whose lives were touched by her.
Tammie loved to travel, camp, shop, and spend time with her family and friends. She would say that her greatest accomplishments were her children, and she delighted in her role as “Mimi”. Tammie’s devotion to her family and friends was evident in the way that she lived her life. Her genuine love and concern for those around her were a testament to her true character. Her faith in Christ and His love for her was a constant source of strength and direction from which she drew. His light showed through her in the way she loved and cared for those around her.
From the time of her diagnosis of ALS until the end of her journey, Tammie displayed an unwavering faith and positive attitude. Her worst days were met with her constant declaration of “I am blessed!” When she could no longer lift her hands in praise she continued to lift her voice. When her voice failed, she offered whispered prayers. When her whispers were silenced, she uttered the word “HOME”. She was a warrior to the end. We rejoice in the hope and assurance through Jesus Christ, we will see her again. Her journey here was one marked with compassion, love and faith in God. We ask that you remember her, not for the way her life ended, but by the way she lived it. “Earth has no sorrow that God cannot heal.”
Survivors include her loving husband of twelve years, Duane “Kurt” Pickett; sons, Brandon Williams of Birchwood and Ryan Williams of Harrison; daughter, Devan (Jonathan) Dewar of Nashville; grandchildren, Maddison Williams, Bo Williams, Connor Dewar, and Brinley Williams; sisters, Sonya (Sam) Crites of Birchwood, Tommie (Eric) Williamson of Ooltewah; brother, Darrell Morgan of Ooltewah; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, January 7, 2026, from 5-8 p.m. and Thursday, January 7, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the hour of service. Funeral services will be held Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. in the Valley View Chapel with Rev. Daniel Willoughby officiating. Interment will follow at New McDonald Cemetery.
Arrangements are by the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 7414 Old Lee Hwy., Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.

01/06/2026

Myrtle Cross, age 86, of Chattanooga passed away peacefully, Sunday, January 4, 2026.
She was born on October 31, 1939, in Chattanooga to the late Robert & Lorine (Whittle) Hill.
Myrtle loved the Lord and she loved to sing. She and her family spent many years traveling and ministering through Southern Gospel Music. On the weekends she was on the road with her family and dear friends spreading the Word of God in song. She had a beautiful Alto voice and her family knows she is a welcome addition to the Heavenly Chorus.
Her youth was in Apison, TN in a home filled with the love of God, nature, gardening, animals and helping others. These things were taught to Myrtle and her siblings by witnessing the example of their mother Lorine Hill.
Hard work was in Myrtle’s DNA. She worked full time as a cashier at Ryall Springs grocery store and The Food King in East Brainerd. She landed a job at McKee Bakery and flew up the plant ladder with her work ethics. She took great pride in her last role as Creamer Capper Operator on the delicious Oatmeal Cream Pie line.
She retired from that position and stayed home with the love of her life, Lawrence “Jet” Cross. She became a caretaker for her beloved Jet until his passing.
Her health declined and she lived her final years at Martin Boyd Christian Home. Myrtle was loved like family by many staff members. Thank You to Hospice of Chattanooga for providing such great care in her final month.
Survivors include her children, Sheila Knight (Brian Knight) of Harrison, TN and Wayne Cross (Cheryl Cross) of Apison, TN, Phil Cross (Connie Cross) of Calhoun, GA; grandchildren, Austin Knight, Myranna Morris, Brittany Cross, Bryan French, Brian Presson, Gavin Cross, Roman Presson, Isaac Presson and Lilah Myer; and sister, Thelma Hullender.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, January 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the funeral home. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 PM in the chapel with Donnie Stafford officiating.
Interment will follow at Lakewood Memory Gardens, East.
Memorial contributions may be made to Martin-Boyd Christian Home, 6845 Standifer Gap Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Arrangements are by the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 7414 Old Lee Hwy., Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.