Obituaries
Local Obituaries for McMinn County, Tennessee
Jeffery Mazowieski
Mar 11, 2026
Jeffery Mazowieski, a beloved husband, father, papa, brother, and friend, passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the age of 68. Jeffery led a life of marked service, love, and unwavering dedication to his country, family, and friends.
As a senior master sergeant in the United States Air Force, Jeffery proudly served his country for 24 years. His commitment to duty...
Ed Cochran
Mar 10, 2026
Edgar "Ed" Joines Cochran, a lifelong resident of Englewood, Tennessee, local businessman and loving husband, father, brother, "Uncle Ed," and papaw passed away peacefully on his farm in Nonaburg, Tennessee, on March 10, 2026 surrounded by his family.
Cochran was born October 31, 1943, to Hubert Cochran and Zeola Stiles Cochran in Englewood, Tennessee, where he was raised in a home...
James Lyle Chambers
Mar 5, 2026
James Lyle Chambers, 77, of Englewood, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Born on June 14, 1948, in Andrews, North Carolina, Lyle lived a life defined by service, dedication, and love.
A proud Marine Veteran, Lyle served his country honorably for two years in Vietnam, reflecting his deep commitment to the values of bravery and sacrifice. Following his military...
Bettie Elwood
Feb 27, 2026
Bettie Carroll Elwood, age 95, died peacefully in her sleep on February 27, 2026, at her home in Etowah, Tennessee.
An Etowah native, Bettie dedicated her life to Godly service. Serving for the Presbyterian Church (USA) for 30 years in the Philippines and Taiwan alongside her husband, Rev. Douglas J. Elwood. They retired to Etowah in 1991 and rejoined the First...
Shannon Brewer
Feb 23, 2026
Shannon Brewer, a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished friend, passed away on February 23, 2026, at the age of 53. Born on September 20, 1972, Shannon lived her life with a profound strength rooted in her faith and a passion for her family.
As a stay-at-home mom, Shannon dedicated herself entirely to her role as a mother, cherishing every moment...
William "Bill" McKinney
Feb 23, 2026
William "Bill" McKinney, 93, of Etowah, TN, passed away on Monday, February 23, 2026.
Bill retired from Bowater Paper Mill in Calhoun TN, after 40 years of dedicated service. His work ethic was a testament to his character, and he took pride in every aspect of his career.
Bill was not only dedicated to his profession but also to his family and...
Stephen Key
Feb 21, 2026
Stephen Key, 71 of Englewood, TN, born on August 30, 1954, in Etowah, Tennessee, passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026. He leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy of love that will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him.
Stephen was a deeply loved individual, particularly by his brother, Jerry Key. Together, they shared countless moments, providing...
Sherry Ann Long
Feb 20, 2026
Sherry Long, 63 of Etowah, Tennessee, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026.
Sherry was known for her free-spirited nature and lived her life to the fullest, embodying her philosophy of treating people right and maintaining a clean heart. She was a devoted mother to her two sons, Chris Alfredo and Anthony Alfredo, and her daughter, Sherokee Gore. Sherry’s legacy continues...
Elizabeth Carroll
Feb 20, 2026
Elizabeth "Liz" Carroll, age 88, of Delano, Tennessee, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026. Born on October 7, 1937, in Reliance, Tennessee, Liz embraced a life filled with love, family, and faith. Throughout her years, she was known for her generous spirit, warm smile, and an unwavering dedication to those dear to her.
Liz was a devoted member of Hiwassee...
Bonnis Murphy
Feb 19, 2026
Bonnis Murphy, age 89, of Etowah, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 19, 2026. Born on January 21, 1937, in Marshall, North Carolina, Bonnis embraced life with a dedication that truly reflected her loving spirit.
A cherished mother, Bonnis devoted herself to nurturing her children and extended family. She is survived by her son, Audie Murphy; her daughter and son-in-law, Linda...
Maudie L Thompson
Feb 16, 2026
Maudie L. Thompson, 91 of Etowah passed peacefully on Monday, February 16, 2026 at Tennova Hospital, Turkey Creek.
Preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Renie Blevins; her daughter, Karen Rutledge; siblings, Elsie Blevins, Charlie Blevins and Jack Blevins.
She leaves behind her children and their spouses, James and Tammie Thompson, Charles Thompson and Ida, Tony and Sharon Thompson; grandchildren, Kara...
Kenny Perry
Feb 13, 2026
Kenny Perry, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026, at UT Medical Center.
Kenny retired from a fulfilling career at CSX Railroad, where he was known not just for his work ethic, but also for his affable nature. He was a man who never met a stranger; he had a unique ability to...
Mary Jane "Mammy" Newman
Feb 12, 2026
Mary Jane "Mammy" Newman passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on November 30, 1942, Mary Jane exemplified kindness and strength throughout her life, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her.
She is remembered fondly for her good sense of humor and unwavering faith as a strong Christian. Mary...
Brian Mangrum
Feb 10, 2026
Brian Mangrum, a dedicated and hardworking individual, passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at the age of 61.
Brian was skilled as a welder and his proficiency with his tractor, reveling in opportunities to work outside and connect with nature. His hands-on approach to life reflected his personality; he was a man who found joy in physical labor and the...
Olliemae Morgan Rayburn
Feb 8, 2026
Olliemae Morgan Rayburn, age 88, of Etowah, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her residence on Sunday, February 8, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 24, 1937, Olliemae lived a vibrant life filled with love, dedication, and service to her community.
Olliemae devoted many years of her life to her career, having worked at Woods Hospital before retiring from...
Frank "Bubba" Murphy
Feb 8, 2026
Frank "Bubba" Murphy, a cherished husband, devoted father, and beloved member of the community, passed away peacefully at his residence on February 8, 2026, just days after celebrating his 66th birthday. Born on February 5, 1960, Frank lived a life full of warmth and purpose, touching the hearts of many with his kindness and spirit.
A dedicated professional, Frank spent 20...
Samantha E. Davis
Feb 6, 2026
Samantha E. Davis, 78, of Etowah, Tennessee, passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga, TN. Born in the Linsdale Community to Hershel A. and Oma Lance Davis on February 1, 1948, Samantha's life was marked by her unwavering dedication to family, work, and her community.
A proud graduate of Polk County High School in Benton, TN,...
Luther Starkey
Feb 2, 2026
Luther Starkey, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully at his residence on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on January 18, 1951, Luther lived a life filled with purpose, dedication, and love, particularly for his family, who were his greatest joy.
Luther dedicated 40 years of his professional life to the J.M. Huber...
Tom J. Oakley
Jan 31, 2026
Tom J. Oakley, a beloved dentist and community servant, passed away peacefully at his residence on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the age of 67. Born on March 5, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, Tom touched the lives of many throughout his extensive career and his deep commitment to his faith and family.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree from Lee...
James Dennis Woods
Jan 29, 2026
James Dennis Woods, a lifelong resident of Cleveland, TN., went to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 29, 2026.
Dennis enjoyed a 47-year career as a Medical Laboratory Technologist. The majority of that time he was employed by Erlanger Health Systems.
His greatest joy in life was in studying and sharing the Word of God.
He was preceded in death by his...
