http://www.georgeasmithandsons.com/

George A. Smith and Sons Funeral Home, 2812 N Highland Avenue, Jackson, TN (2026)

05/26/2026

Cornelia S. “Tillie” Tiller, 70, of Jackson, Tennessee passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Alive Hospice in Nashville, following a brief battle with brain cancer.

Born in Macon, Georgia on October 13, 1955, Tillie was the daughter of Bob and Cornelia Tiller. She graduated from Jackson Central-Merry High School and later attended the University of Arizona, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma and earned a degree in agriculture - the perfect foundation for the adventurous life she would go on to lead.

After college, Tillie embraced a wide range of experiences that reflected her independent spirit and love of service. She drove a combine in Texas, taught school in Douglas, Arizona, and worked on cattle and pig farms in rural West Tennessee.

She later attended Columbia Bible College in Columbia, South Carolina and studied French at the Alliance Française de Paris in Paris France in preparation for her life’s calling.

In 1986, Tillie moved to Chad Africa where she served as a Christian missionary for TEAM, The Evangelical Alliance Mission, for over 35 years. She spoke French, Arabic and Chadian Arabic and devoted her life to sharing the Gospel and serving the people of Chad with compassion, humility and unwavering faith.

“Tillie left an indelible mark for the Gospel on the Goz Beida community where she served her last 8 to 10 years in Chad.” ~Rich Hoyt, Regional Member Care Coordinator for TEAM-Africa

“Because of Tillie, the missionary station and health center in Dourbali, Chad functions and serves many.” ~Pastor Tao Vaileck Elysee

Tillie is survived by her mother, Cornelia Hall Tiller and her sister, Susie Tiller Alexander (Chris). She was preceded in death by her father, Bob Tiller.

A service to celebrate the life of Tillie Tiller will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 1:00 pm at All Saints Anglican Church, 212 McClellan Rd., Jackson. The family will receive friends at a reception following the service at the church. Prior to the service, the family will have gathered at Ridgecrest Cemetery for a private committal service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to a charity of your choice.

The family wishes to recognize and express sincere thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of Sarah Cannon Cancer Center and Alive Hospice, in Nashville, Tennessee, for their compassionate and expert care.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/tillie-tiller-12899878

05/25/2026

Today, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice secured the freedoms we cherish each day, and their courage will never be forgotten.

On this Memorial Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to our fallen heroes and heartfelt prayers to the families who carry their memory forward.

May we all take a moment to reflect, remember, and give thanks.

🇺🇸

05/18/2026

Brenda Marie Hooten, a beloved mother and Nana, known for her warm spirit and unwavering devotion to family and faith, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, in Thompson's Station, Tennessee.

Born on September 7, 1950, in Jackson, Tennessee. Brenda was the daughter of the late Dallas and Marie Sikes. She remained close to her siblings, including her brother Jerry Sikes and sister Rita (Ricky) Kurt, while fondly remembering her late brother Donald Sikes.

Brenda was a cherished wife to Jesse Charles Hooten, with whom she shared 59 glorious years of marriage. Their enduring partnership was a testament to love and commitment, nurtured through decades of shared life experiences. She was a devoted mother to Shane Hooten and Sandy (Les) Parker, and a loving grandmother to Drake Davis and Sydney Davis, who brought her immense joy, especially during their cherished outings shopping together. Brenda’s family was central to her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Brenda loved Jesus and lived her life guided by spiritual grace. The loss of her son, Jesse Charles Hooten Jr., was deeply felt, yet her strength and deep faith sustained her throughout life’s challenges.

She was known for never meeting a stranger, always greeting everyone with warmth and friendliness. Her hobbies reflected her vibrant spirit—she loved gardening, spending time with Bailey and Harley, beloved Yorkies and traveling.

One of Brenda’s proudest accomplishments was receiving the Volunteer Teacher Award for Williamson County, a reflection of her dedication and selflessness in serving others. This recognition underscored her commitment to education and community, leaving a lasting impact.

Visitation to honor Brenda’s memory will be held on May 20, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Spring Hill Memorial Park, Funeral Home & Cremation Services, located at 5239 Main St., Spring Hill, TN 37174. Following the visitation, a funeral service will take place at 2:00 PM the same day at the same location, officiated by Darin Grantham. A second visitation will be held on May 21, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at George A Smith and Sons, 1544 S Highland Ave, Jackson, TN 38301, with a graveside service to follow officiated by Mickey Jackson. Active Pallbearers will be Nick Robbins, Jason Robbins, Jimmy Richardson, Jacob Richardson, Heath Goff.

Brenda Marie Hooten’s legacy is one of love, faith, and kindness. She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory and the many lives she touched with her generous spirit. Her warmth and compassion remain an enduring example to all who had the privilege to know her.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/brenda-hooten-12892168

05/18/2026

Margaret Haley Myracle, age 95, of Jackson, passed away peacefully at home on May 17, 2026. Born on January 21, 1931, in Chester County, Margaret was the daughter of the late Norman and Jennie Harris Frye.

Margaret was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and cherished friend. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her warm heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith were a blessing to everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She was preceded in death by her husband of more than 57 years, Clenon Elwood Myracle, and by her daughter, Tricia Maldonado of Orlando.

Margaret is survived by her daughter, Carla (Wallace) Oswalt of Jackson; her son, Andy (Beth) Myracle of Pinson; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

A faithful member of Parkburg Baptist Church for many years, Margaret found great joy in serving others. She lovingly cared for children in the church nursery and was always willing to help with church activities whenever needed. Her kindness, servant’s heart, and dedication to her church family touched countless lives through the years.

Visitation for Margaret will be held at George A. Smith and Sons South Chapel on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Parkburg Baptist Church on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with Brother Danny Rachel officiating. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 12:00 p.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow immediately afterward in Parkburg Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jared Myracle, Jacob Myracle, Hunter Gullett, David Key, Phillip Allen, and Bobby Coffman.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the love, prayers, and support shown during this difficult time. Margaret’s legacy of faith, love, and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/margaret-myracle-12891612

05/17/2026

The Honorable John Franklin Murchison, Sr., age 94, passed away on May 16, 2026 in Jackson, Tennessee.

Franklin was born on March 23, 1932 in Maury City, Tennessee to the late Henry Carmack Murchison and Orban Peal Murchison. He was a proud West Tennessean whose life was marked by distinguished service to his country, the legal profession, and the people of Tennessee.

A graduate of Jackson High School, Franklin continued his education at Northeast Mississippi Junior College, where he played football, and Union University before earning his law degree from Vanderbilt University in 1956. He also graduated from the United States Army Judge Advocate General School in 1956.

Franklin honorably served his country in the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps from 1957 until 1960, attaining the rank of Captain. During his military service, he held positions including Defense Counsel, Prosecuting Counsel, Chief of Appellate Review, and Chief of Military Justice while stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He received an honorable discharge in 1960.

Following his military service, Franklin returned home to Jackson where he devoted decades to the practice of law. From 1960 until 1975, he practiced with the firm of Murchison & Murchison alongside his father, Carmack Murchison, focusing on civil and criminal litigation in both state and federal courts. He later practiced with the firm of Spragins & Murchison with Sidney W. Spragins from 1975 until 1985, where his work continued to center on litigation and trial practice. The firm went on to add Charles H. Barnett and William L. Guy as partners.

In 1985, Franklin was elected Judge of the Circuit Court of Tennessee for the 26th Judicial District, Division III, serving Madison, Henderson, and Chester Counties. Throughout his judicial career, he was respected for his wisdom, fairness, integrity, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Franklin was admitted to practice before all courts of Tennessee, the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Federal Judicial Circuit, the United States Court of Military Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. He was a member of the Jackson County Bar Association, the American College of Trial Lawyers, the American Bar Foundation, and the Tennessee Association of Tennessee Trial Judges.

Outside of his professional life, Franklin was an avid golfer and devoted sports fan who especially enjoyed following college athletics and spending time on the golf course with friends and family. Whether cheering on his favorite teams or enjoying a round of golf, he treasured the fellowship and memories those moments brought throughout his life.

Above all, Franklin will be remembered as a devoted family man, respected jurist, proud veteran, and trusted friend whose influence reached far beyond the courtroom. His legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to the law will continue to be felt throughout the community he faithfully served for so many years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Green Murchison; his daughter, Leslie Murchison Cap; and his parents, Henry Carmack Murchison and Orban Peal Murchison.

Franklin is survived by his children, Laura Murchison Starnes, MD (Michael) of Memphis, Tennessee, John Franklin Murchison, Jr., MD (Kelly) of Knoxville, Tennessee, and Amy Murchison McKinnis of Edmond, Oklahoma; his grandchildren, Gabriel Cap (Jennifer), Michael Cap (Kelly), Daniel Cap, Rachel Moscosa (Tony), William McKinnis, Andrew McKinnis, Cathryn Marker (Jacob), Olivia McKinnis, Franklin Murchison, III, DDS (Allyson), Caroline Borie, MD (Tuck), Maggie Ledbetter (Sage); and a host of great-grandchildren.

The family will hold a memorial service at a later date where family and friends will be cordially invited to celebrate the life of The Honorable John Franklin Murchison.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/the-honorable-franklin-murchison-12890316

05/14/2026

Martha Sue Case Johnson, age 92, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, in Jackson, Tennessee.

Born on April 10, 1934, in Pontotoc, Mississippi, Martha was a woman of enduring grace and strength whose life touched all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents, Wilburn and Quay Miller King; her first husband, Sidney Case; her second husband, Norman Johnson; her sons, Joe Case and Johnny Case; her brothers, Stanley King and Felix King; and her first cousin, Jo Poteete.

She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Pam Bentley and her husband Micky Bentley, who was formerly married to her son Joe Case; her sister, Juanita King; her first cousins, Don King and Calvin King; and three beloved grandchildren: Chris Case and his girlfriend Dana Priymak, Chelsea Case Givens and her husband Andy Givens, and Stephanie Case Shrewsbury and her husband Andrew Shrewsbury. Martha also cherished her two great-grandchildren, Austin Shrewsbury and Eli Shrewsbury, who brought immeasurable joy to her later years.

Martha Sue lived a life defined by resilience and devotion. Though she faced the profound grief of losing both of her husbands and both of her sons, she carried herself with quiet dignity and remained a steady, loving presence for those around her. Her roots in Mississippi ran deep, and the values instilled in her from her earliest days shaped the woman she became.

She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of sharing in her life.

A graveside service to celebrate the life of Martha Case Johnson will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Ridgecrest Cemetery. Blane DeLoach will officiate the service.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/martha-johnson-12875355

05/13/2026

Laura Spencer Haltom, age 39, passed away on May 11, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Laura was born on June 17, 1986 in Carterville, Illinois to Dennis and Kim Spencer. She earned her associate’s degree in Musical Theatre, a reflection of her lifelong passion for music and the stage. Laura loved music, the theatre, and the joy that the arts brought into her life. She also dearly loved her fur babies, Ollie, Daisy Mae, and Delilah, who were treasured members of her family. Known for her loving heart and kind spirit, Laura leaves behind many cherished memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her husband, Dustin Haltom; her parents, Dennis and Kim Spencer of Carterville, Illinois; sisters, Denise Ridgway and husband Nathan of Carterville, Illinois, and Lisa Vannoy and husband Justin of Marion, Illinois; paternal grandmother, Delores Spencer; father and mother-in-law, Michael and Sandy Haltom; and Judy and Cleve Ratliff, mother and father-in-law.

Laura is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Amanda Griffin and husband Matt, Crystal Matthews and husband Matt, and Danielle Mays and husband Ryan; nephews, Grant Matthews and wife Mary Emilee, Chase Dyer, Elijah Myers, and Logan Vannoy; nieces, Makenzie Pitts and husband Tyler, Maleigha Mays, Rylee Mays, Mia Dyer, Colbie Ridgway, and Macie Ridgway; great-nieces, Lynnon Ridgway and Isla Myers; as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Donald and Alice Black of Carterville, Illinois; paternal grandfather, Russell Spencer of Carterville, Illinois; aunt, Dr. Donna Spencer of Benton, Illinois; nephew, Jaxon Mays; and grandmother-in-law, Imogene Haltom.

A memorial visitation to celebrate the life of Laura Spencer Haltom will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026 from 3-5 p.m. at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons. Friends and Family are cordially invited to attend.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/laura-haltom-12885129

05/09/2026

Christopher Scott Davis, age 62, passed away on May 6, 2026. He was born on December 15, 1963, in Jackson.

Chris lived a quiet and content life, finding joy in the simple pleasures and choosing to live life on his own terms. An optician by trade, he dedicated many years to his profession before retiring in 2024. He was a 1982 graduate of North Side High School and spent most of his life in West Tennessee and Eastern Arkansas.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Davis; his brother, Chuck Davis; his niece, Crystal Davis; and his stepfather, Chuck Dolejs.

Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Margaret Ann “Maggie” Dolejs; his daughter, Jessica Ann Davis Bond (Johnny); his sons, Keegan Pate, Peyton Davis, and Aiden Davis; his brothers, Tim Davis (Myra), Chuck Dolejs, and Chris Dolejs; his sisters, Debbie Sue Lang, Doray Woods, Darcy Neihardt, and Denise Neidig; his grandchildren, Nevaeh Bond, Niley Bond, and Johnny Bond III; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Chris will be remembered for his independent spirit, his quiet nature, and the love he carried for his family. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

“You and I will meet again, When we’re least expecting it, One day in some far off place, I will recognize your face, I won’t say goodbye my friend, For you and I will meet again.” - Tom Petty

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/christopher-davis-12875431

05/06/2026

Mary Lou McLaughlin, age 72, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026, at her home in Jackson, Tennessee, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on November 17, 1953, in Bruceton, Tennessee, Mary Lou was one of fifteen children born to the late Ishman Glen Hilliard and Elsie England Hilliard. She built a long and dedicated career as a district manager for Waffle House Restaurants, where she was known for her strong work ethic, leadership, and care for those she worked alongside.

Mary Lou was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She cherished time spent with her family and took great pride in the life she built and the relationships she nurtured over the years.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by eleven of her siblings.

She is survived by her husband, Matthew McLaughlin; her children, J.R. Ferguson and Shirley Ferguson; her stepchildren, Megan McLaughlin and Camron McLaughlin (Linda Kay); and twelve grandchildren who were a constant source of joy in her life.

She is also survived by her siblings, Jennifer Wolfe, Johnny Hilliard, and Joyce Hensley, along with several nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss her dearly.

A graveside service to celebrate the life of Mary Lou McLaughlin will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Shiloh Cemetery in the Westport Community of Carroll County.

Mary Lou’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/mary-mclaughlin-12869836

05/04/2026

Ruby Patterson, 93, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2026, in Jackson, Tennessee.

Ruby was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Franklin Patterson; her parents, Egward and Elsie Smithy; and her siblings, Nella, Sarah, and Jack. She is survived by her sisters Margie, Sue, and Doris; her son and daughter-in-law, James Paul and Sylvia Patterson; her daughter, Sheila Kay Bostic; seven grandchildren; and fifteen great-grandchildren. She prayed for each of them—by name—every single day of their lives, a legacy of love and faith that will carry on for generations.

Ruby was born on July 15, 1932, in New Albany, Mississippi, the oldest of seven children. That role shaped her early, as she became the one who cooked for the entire family. Even when she was too small to reach the stove, she would climb onto a stepstool in the early hours of the morning to prepare meals. What began out of necessity became one of her greatest gifts. Ruby became an incredible cook, known far and wide for her beans and cornbread, chicken and dressing, sweet and sour green beans, and most especially her famous banana pudding.

She grew up with very little, recalling that on a good Christmas she might receive fruit in her stocking. Because of that, Christmas became her favorite holiday to give, not just receive. In her home, stockings overflowed, the kitchen was always full of rich aromas, and the sound of laughter—and Elvis—filled the air. She made sure her family never lacked what she once went without.

Ruby met the love of her life, James, at a tent revival. Spotting him on stage, she asked, “Who is that guitar player?” Not long after, at just 18 years old, she eloped with him. Together they shared nearly 50 years of marriage marked by devotion, faith, and steadfast love. Many mornings were spent side by side with coffee in hand, studying the Bible, and each night they knelt together in prayer. Their faith was not just spoken—it was lived.

Ruby worked hard throughout her life, spending years in the cotton fields and later caring for children in daycare. She remained a faithful member of Ripley First Assembly of God until she was no longer able to drive. After that, she faithfully tuned in, and Jimmy Swaggart became her pastor around the clock.

Ruby, like the diamond she was, had a few rough edges. She didn’t mind telling you exactly how she felt—but she would always follow it with, “You know I love you.” And you did. She had both class and sass, loved to shop, played a mean game of dominos, and enjoyed listening to the Gaithers. But more than anything, she loved being with her family.

Ruby’s life was a testimony of faith, resilience, generosity, and love. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew her.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/ruby-patterson-12868796

05/02/2026

Robert Franklin Hudson, Jr. was born on May 30, 1932 in Pinson, TN. He was the only child born to share-cropper and later Postmaster, Robert Franklin Hudson, Sr. and Second Grade School Teacher, Nina Marie (Barham) Hudson; both of which preceded him in death.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Margaret Elizabeth (Bettye) Tapley Hudson and four children: Karen Denise Hudson Roe (David), Robert Franklin (Bobby) Hudson, III (Wanda); Marie Elaine Hudson Fitts (Lee), Bonita Jane Hudson Pearson (Lowry); granddaughter: Hannah Brooke Pearson Eaton (Nathan) and one step-grandson: Cody Lee Fitts (Emily).

A well-lived life that spanned almost a century, Mr. Hudson’s family moved from Pinson, TN to the Malesus community in South Jackson, TN when he was a young boy. He was raised in the Methodist Church and was a member at Malesus United Methodist Church his entire life.

Mr. Hudson enjoyed sports and played basketball in high school. He later claimed the highest academic achievement of Valedictorian of the 1950 graduating class of Malesus High School. He attended Lambuth College majoring in Business and went on to work for the Eli Witt Company, where he was a vendor for many years, providing goods and to***co to grocery stores, gasoline stations and convenience stores in the surrounding area. He was later promoted to branch manager and retired there in 1987 at the age of 55.

Conversations in later years with Robert Franklin outlined his memories growing up with modest means. The family made a living by farming and walked or used a mule for transportation in his early years.

He shared stories of growing up before the modern conveniences of indoor plumbing, electricity or refrigeration were installed in the home. He told of evening conversations, teaching and Bible reading by the light of coal oil lamps. Ice blocks were delivered twice weekly by horse and buggy to aid in food preservation, while meats were salt cured and kept in a smoke house.

He recalled mandatory blackouts during WWII, which were restrictions on outdoor lighting to make it harder for enemy combatants to find their targets at night. The radio was their first introduction to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Fireside Chats during the Great Depression, and he noted them as having provided a great deal of comfort to the nation during very difficult and trying times.

Robert Franklin had a great affinity for automobiles and was blessed to have owned several new cars over the course of his lifetime. His favorite, a blue and white 1958 Mercury Monterey. A classic American-made full-size car featuring bold “space-age” 1950s styling, prominent tail fins and quad headlights. It featured extensive chrome and a distinctive grille which he said was “really cool”! He enjoyed watching the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auctions on television and was also a huge NBA Basketball fan.

Mr. Hudson was a firm believer in God and encouraged his family during times of trial to always “Give it to Jesus.” He often quoted Matthew 5:9 from the Bible (KJV) which states: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God”. Robert Franklin actively lived out this verse and fostered peace, reconciliation and unity. This was truly his spiritual gift, and his expression of Christian faith. Many were blessed by this example. Mr. Hudson died peacefully at the age of 93 on May 1, 2026 in his home, with his family near him. He will be greatly missed!

The family wishes to thank the staff of Gentiva Hospice for their incredible care and compassion shown to our entire family during such a challenging time.

A graveside service to celebrate the life of Robert F. Hudson, Jr. will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. at Ebenezer Cemetery in Malesus. The family will receive friends at the South Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Tuesday.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorial gifts be made in his honor to either The American Heart Association, Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75231 at www.heart.org or Malesus United Methodist Church, 448 Old Malesus Road, Jackson, TN 38301

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/robert-hudson-12868835

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