George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home

10/11/2025

Celebrating the life of Ann Robbin’s Phillips

10/10/2025

Hubert Brooks Clayton, age 82, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, at St. Thomas West Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee, following heart surgery.

Born in Kevil, Kentucky, on March 27, 1943, Brooks was the beloved son of Hubert Farris and Mary Lorraine (Brooks) Clayton. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend—known for his patience, warmth, integrity, and lifelong commitment to God, his church, his family, and his business.

Brooks was the proud owner of Mid-South Color Labs in Jackson, TN, which he led for over 40 years with dedication and care. His leadership and vision shaped the company into both a trusted name and a close-knit workplace family. Under his guidance, Mid-South Color Labs provides professional photographic finishing services that reach far beyond West Tennessee. He and his team create works of art that garner respect from clients across the US and beyond. In true Brooks spirit, he continued to lead the company full time up until the time of his death.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda McGee Clayton; his siblings Paul Clayton, Elaine Weatherford, and Martha McLaughlin; and several in-laws who were dear to him. He is survived by his children, Kathryn Lee Clayton of Memphis, TN, and Douglass Brooks Clayton (Jenny) of Franklin, TN; his grandchildren, Jackson and William, both of Franklin, TN; his siblings, John (Doris) Clayton of Brentwood, TN, Mary Douglass of Brentwood, TN, Hope Koebbe of Kirkwood, MO; and his sister-in-law, Carolyn Clayton of Brentwood, TN.

A service to celebrate Brooks’ life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at First United Methodist Church in Jackson, Tennessee, with visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. A private interment for family will follow at Highland Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in his memory be made to First United Methodist Church, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a charity of your choosing.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.GeorgeASmithandSons.com for the Clayton family.

He will be missed beyond measure.

Celebrate the life of Brooks Clayton, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home.

10/07/2025

Roy Milton McCoy, Sr., 78, of Jackson, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025.

Born December 4, 1946, in Humboldt, TN, Roy lived a life marked by hard work, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family and friends.

Roy was a certified mechanic for Exxon and a lifelong entrepreneur, owning and operating several successful businesses throughout Florida and Tennessee. Later in life, he turned his talents to painting, founding multiple painting companies and earning a reputation as a top business owner in the field. Roy worked with passion and purpose up until his final days—a true testament to his enduring work ethic.

More than just a skilled mechanic and painter, Roy was a man who loved deeply and gave freely. He had a love for the open road and often rode his motorcycle alongside his first wife, Kathy. The two would take off on Fridays just to see where the road would take them. He participated in many dice runs and rallies, riding to raise money for children and families in need—a cause close to his heart.

Roy loved his westerns, teaching his grandchildren songs (some of which got them called to the school), and spending cherished time with his family. He was known for his big heart, quick wit, and incredible talent as a self-taught musician. Roy sang and played guitar beautifully, often sharing his music in church, where he also shared his deep love for the Lord.

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Louise and Joseph W. McCoy; his wives, Kathy M. McCoy and Judy D. McCoy; his daughter, Malissa McCoy Chappell; four grandchildren, David Nelson, Jana Chappell, Jordan Chappell, and Rynne Robinson; and his brothers, Billy Joseph McCoy and Kay McCoy.

Roy leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter through his children: daughters Tammie McCoy Robinson (Douglas) of Lexington, TN, and Tracey Patrick (Bobby) of Loveland, CO; and sons Roy McCoy Jr. of Jackson, TN, and Jerry McCoy of Waverly, TN. His memory will also live on through his many grandchildren: Lisa McCay, Jennifer Mitchell, Nicholas Thomas, Chance Chappell, Steve Nelson, Chis Patrick, Megan Patrick, Sebastian L. McCoy, Brently McCoy Williams, Bailey McCoy Williams, and Spencer McCoy Williams; as well as numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Carlos McCoy, and sister, Doris McCoy.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons. An escorted procession will follow to the Mausoleum Chapel at Highland Memorial Gardens for a cryptside service at 1:00 p.m., with entombment immediately following.

Pallbearers to serve will be Douglas Robinson, Gage Thomas, Sebastian McCoy, Justin Estep, Roy McCoy, Jr. and Aiden Brooks.

Roy was a man who worked hard, loved harder, and lived with purpose. His legacy is one of strength, laughter, music, and devotion—and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Celebrate the life of Roy McCoy, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home.

10/06/2025

Permelia “Pam” Wallace, age 89, of Jackson, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025.

Pam was born on October 21, 1935, in Lexington, Tennessee, to Hulon and Etta Franklin.

Pam was married to the love of her life, Cliff Wallace, and together they shared many happy years. One of her fondest memories was being pulled around the house in a little red wagon by Cliff when she was five years old—often joined by her brother, Powell.

Pam was an artist in every sense of the word. She loved painting, calligraphy, and rubber stamping, and she found beauty in antiques and anything homemade. Over the years, she painted hundreds of beautiful pictures.

She worked as a ward clerk at Jackson General Hospital before owning The Jackson Florist, which she operated for eight years.

Pam was active in her community, serving as President of the West Tennessee Decorative Painters, as an officer of the Eastern Star, and as a member of the Jackson Business Women’s Association. She also served as Secretary of the St. Mary’s Bowling League.

One of her proudest accomplishments was painting a Christmas ornament that was displayed on the White House Christmas Tree and is now housed in the Smithsonian Institution—a lasting testament to her talent and creativity.

Above all else, Pam’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her children, Linda Lodes (husband Jack, deceased) and Randy Wallace (wife Karen). Her proudest moments were the births of her children—though she would often joke that “of course, she liked Randy the best.”

She is also survived by her sister-in-law Ella (Tootsie) Franklin and was preceded in death by her siblings Wilma Wallace (husband Audean), infant brother Franklin, Powell Franklin, Betty Jo Middleton, and Sue Garner (husband Herbert).

Pam was the proud grandmother of Whitney Wallace; Casey (Kimmer), Cliff (Whitney), and Crissy Lodes; and Shelley Jelinek (Martin).

Her great-grandchildren are Whitten Lodes, Wryland Lodes, Samantha Courtney (Kip), and Jarod Jelinek. She was also blessed with one great-great-grandchild, Casey Courtney. She also has numerous nieces and nephews.

Pam will be remembered for her kindness, humor, and artistic spirit.

Visitation will be held at 12:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m., on October, 10, 2025 at George A. Smith & Sons North Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Highland Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Exchange Club–Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse in her memory.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Celebrate the life of Permelia Wallace, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home.

10/06/2025

Dennis Franklin Hays II, of Jackson, Tennessee, passed away on October 5, 2025, at the age of 63. He was born on July 15, 1962, in Jackson, Tennessee.

Dennis was a man of many talents and deep passions. An avid duck hunter, he found joy and peace in the early morning stillness of the water, often accompanied by his loyal hunting dog, Tar. When not in the field, he enjoyed woodworking — skillfully crafting beautiful duck decoys and duck calls that reflected both his artistry and love for the outdoors.

A proud third-generation plumber, Dennis carried on his family’s legacy as the owner and operator of Hays Plumbing, Heating and Air. His dedication, work ethic, and integrity earned him the respect and trust of countless customers and friends throughout the community.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Leroy and Lucille Hays and Annie and Toy Allen.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife, Debbi Dodsworth Hays; his father, Dennis Hays (Jackie); his mother, Sandra Allen Berry; his brother, Perry Hays; sisters, Elizabeth Hays Grays (Sara), Kimberly Hays Finlay (Ian), and Nanci Colon (Larry); and his step-siblings, Michelle Singleton (Darrell), Melinda Burke (Michael), Elizabeth Stuessy, and Lori Knight.

A graveside service celebrating Dennis’s life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Parkburg Cemetery near Pinson, with burial to follow.

Dennis will be remembered for his skilled hands, generous heart, and steadfast love for family, friends, and the simple beauty of a day spent outdoors.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the Kirkland Cancer Center or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Celebrate the life of Dennis Hays II, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home.

10/03/2025

10/03/2025

Nancy Elois Miller, 79, of South Jackson, Tennessee, passed away on October 2, 2025.

She was born on June 29, 1946, in Gibson County, Tennessee, to the late R.V. and Lola Mae Forsythe.

Nancy was raised on her family’s farm in Fruitland, Tennessee, where she learned the values of hard work, dedication, and family that would guide her throughout her life. She graduated from Peabody High School before beginning a career in law enforcement that would span decades.

She proudly served with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, where she rose through the ranks to retire as a lieutenant. During her years of service, she oversaw both dispatch and warrants, earning the respect of her colleagues and the gratitude of her community for her commitment and leadership.

Family was always at the center of Nancy’s heart. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry Miller; daughter-in-law, Renee Miller; her sisters, Kay, Nettie, and Stella; and her brothers, Wes, Earl, and Junior.

She is survived by her son, Greg Miller; granddaughters, Kim, Amber, and Amy; seven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

Nancy will be remembered as a strong, devoted woman who gave her life to service—both to her community and to her family.

Celebrate the life of Nancy Miller, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home.

10/03/2025

10/03/2025

Thelma Mae White, 80, of Jackson, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her home on October 2, 2025.
She was born on September 24, 1945, in Bruceton, Tennessee.

After attending cosmetology school at McCollum and Ross in Jackson, Thelma pursued a career she loved as a hairdresser. She owned and operated her own salon in Memphis, Tennessee, for more than 25 years, where she built lasting friendships and was known for her warmth, creativity, and care for others.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George White; and her parents and eleven siblings.

Thelma is survived by her children, Todd Gulledge (Dawn) and Tammy Allen; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and four siblings, Mary Lou McLaughlin, Jennifer Wolfe, Johnny Hilliard, and Joyce Hensley.

A graveside service to celebrate the life of Thelma White will be held on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Highland Memorial Gardens with family officiating.

Thelma will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her many years of service behind the salon chair, and the kindness she shared with everyone she met.

10/02/2025

Herbert Johnson, 68, of Jackson, Tennessee, passed away on October 1, 2025.

He was born on December 27, 1956, in Chicago Heights, Illinois, to the late Ralph L. Johnson and Mary Zomparelli Johnson.

Herbert had an incredible love for life and for truly living it. For most of his career, he worked as a maintenance worker in various manufacturing factories, where he was known for his hard work and dedication. Outside of work, he was an avid golfer who found joy on the course and in the friendships it brought.

A lifelong animal lover, Herbert especially adored his dogs—most recently his beloved companion, Karat. Daily walks and dog cookies were a simple joy he never missed sharing with them.

He was also a proud Mason for 36 years with the Crete Lodge #0763 in Crete, Illinois, where his loyalty and fellowship will be remembered.

Herbert lived with a spirit that echoed one of his favorite songs, Frank Sinatra’s My Way: “I did it my way.” That sentiment captured his approach to life—full of independence, love, laughter, and the courage to be himself.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy Lemler Johnson; his children, Nicole Pugh (David) and Anthony Johnson (Trevor); and his siblings, Howard Johnson (Sue), Jo Alph, Ralph Johnson, Jr., and Phyllis Holtzman.

In addition to his parents, Herbert was preceded in death by other loved ones who now welcome him home.

Services will be private. The family asks that Herbert be remembered for the joy he found in everyday life, his devotion to family and friends, and the simple pleasures that made his journey uniquely his own.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

Celebrate the life of Herbert Johnson, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home.

10/02/2025

Ann Robbins Phillips, 90, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025. She was born on January 31, 1935, in Jackson, Tennessee.

Ann dedicated her life to education and service. A proud graduate of Lambuth College (B.A., 1957) and George Peabody College for Teachers (M.A., 1958), she went on to serve as University Librarian and Assistant Professor of Library Science at Lambuth University for 32 years. She retired in 1997, leaving a legacy of scholarship, mentorship, and care for generations of students.

Her service extended far beyond the university. Ann served several terms on the United Methodist Southeastern Jurisdiction Commission on Archives and History. In 1988 she completed the UT Master Gardener program, sharing her love of growing and nurturing with her community. She volunteered faithfully with Area Relief Ministries and RIFA, including a Hurricane Katrina relief trip to Ocean Springs, Mississippi, in October 2005.

She loved all musicals and stage productions. She was active for many years in the Jackson, TN Children’s and Teen Theatre. She made numerous trips to New York with the Lambuth theatre group, enjoying hundreds of plays and musicals. Ann remained faithful to her church and was active in group Bible studies, oftentimes hosting the group in her home.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Reverend Carl Robbins and Mary Ann Robbins, and her beloved daughter Marian Elizabeth Phillips Simmons. Ann – also known affectionately as Grandy - is survived by her son-in-law Ed Simmons; her daughter-in-law Julia Simmons; her much loved grandsons William Simmons (Sydney), Will Simmons (Carissa), and Seth Simmons (Rachel); and great-grandchildren Hilde, Olivia, and Sullivan Simmons. Ann had limited family in the Jackson area but many people inside and outside of Jackson adopted Ann and loved her like family. She loved you all – thank you for being her adopted family.

Ann will be remembered for her wisdom, her generosity, and her deep devotion to family, faith, and community.

A service to celebrate her life will be held at Forest Heights United Methodist Church in Jackson on October 11th, 2025, with a 12:30pm visitation followed by a 2:00pm service. If you would like to honor Ann, memorials may be made to Area Relief Ministries or RIFA.

Celebrate the life of Ann Phillips, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home.