Mildred Dockery, 94, of Murphy, died Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018, at her residence.
    She was a native of Cherokee County and lived here most of her life. She was a homemaker and member of Ebenezer Baptist Church.
    She was the daughter of the late Jefferson and Ethel Henson Dalrymple, and wife of the late Leonard Dockery, who died Sept. 21, 1986. She also was preceded in death by two sons, Barry and Roger Dockery; two brothers, James and Richard Dalrymple; and one sister, Mary Dalrymple.
    Surviving are two granddaughters, Alisa Wimpey of Hayesville and Monica Johnson of Blairsville, Ga.; four great-grandchildren; a special family member, Lou Ann Johnson of Blairsville, Ga.; a sister-in-law, Gladys Davis of Murphy; several nieces and nephews; and best friend, Pat Vintner.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 29, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Rev. Edward Carter officiating. The interment was in Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers were Mike Dalrymple, Tommy and Trevor Wimpey, Colton Deaver, Steve Oliver and Jim Kephart.
    The family received friends from noon-1:45 p.m. Monday, Jan. 29, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, prior to the service.
    The family requests memorials be made in memory of Mildred Dockery to Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Sharon Kephart, 1045 Ebenezer Road, Murphy, NC 28906.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Annie Marie Tait, 60, of Peckerwood Road, Hayesville, passed away peacefully on Monday, Jan. 29, 2018, in Mission Memorial Intensive Care Unit following a brief illness.
    Mrs. Tait was born June 30, 1957, in St. Clair, Mich., the daughter of the late Raymond Hohmann Sr. and Virginia Barretto Hohmann.
    Anne had been a registered nurse for many years. She was a loving and caring mother, sister and grandmother.
    She was preceded in death by her husband, Alan Tait Jr. in 2000; a brother, Richard Hohmann, and a sister, Margaret Cothren.
    Annie was of the Traditional Roman Catholic Faith.
    Surviving Mrs. Tait are five daughters and four sons-in-law, Monica and Terry Allison of Hayesville, Sarah and Angel DeLaCruz of Murphy, Kaydee and Matt Cox of Hayesville, Teresa Tait of Franklin, Annie and Nathan Henderson of Copperhill, Tenn.; six brothers and five sisters-in-law, Joe and Sue Hohmann of Yale, Mich., John Hohmann of Hayesville, Raymond and Rosie Hohmann of Hayesville, Paul and Shevaun Hohmann of Marysville, Mich., Carl and Vonda Hohmann of Marble, Fred and Dawn Hohmann of Marble, and Vickie Hohmann of Hiawassee, Ga.; 12 grandchildren, Samantha, Dwain, Jesse, Caleb, Tasker, Cory, Kiersten, Klayre, Kloie MatteAnne, Isaac, Elijah and Hailey; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many other relatives and friends also survive.
    A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, from St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with Father Juan Areiza officiating. Special music will be presented by Ron Gaucher. Maryanne Engelmann will serve as cantor. The following gentleman will serve as pallbearers: Carl, Paul, Fred, Joseph Sr., Ray Jr. and Ray Hohmann III. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be John Hohmann, Dwain Cook, Caleb Cook, Cory Cox, Isaac and Elijah Henderson, Tasker Owen Jenkins, Sam Singh and Mike Majors. Interment will follow in the Hohmann Family Cemetery in Hayesville. The family will meet with friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, at the funeral home.
    Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville, Ga., is in charge of the arrangements.
    You may sign the family guest book and send condolences online at www.mountainviewfuneralhome.com.

    Betty Mae Hartman, 89, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2017, as a result of congestive heart failure.
    She was born Jan. 29, 1928, in Grill, Pa. Betty and Carl were married Dec. 27, 1951, and spent almost 66 years together.
    They served in pastoral ministry in the Seventh-day Adventist Church for more than 40 years in Maryland, Virginia, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina and Iowa. Part of that time Carl served as the pastor of Seventh-day Adventist Churches in Andrews and Murphy (1978-84).
    Upon retirement, they moved back to Andrews, where they built a retirement home and lived for 20 years. Carl and Betty loved serving their community through various ministries, such as smoking cessation classes and cooking schools. They helped coordinate the monthly MANNA food program in Andrews for 10 years, which meant at least 100 distributions of produce to seniors who might not have otherwise gotten fresh food.
    Because of failing health, Carl and Betty had to leave their beloved home in Andrews and move to an assisted living center near Nashville, Tenn., in October 2016.
    A memorial service was held Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2018, at the Hendersonville, Tenn., Adventist Church.
    Betty is survived by her husband, Carl; and two sons, David (Judi) Hartman of Portland, Tenn., and John (Harriet) Hartman of Knoxville, Tenn.; also two grandchildren, Matthew (Lis) Hartman of Memphis, Tenn., and Beth (Ben) Crerar of Ooltewah, Tenn.
    Feel free to send condolences to DavidLHartman@bellsouth.net.

    Annie Marie Tait, 60, of Peckerwood Road in Hayesville, passed away peacefully on Monday, Jan. 29, 2018, in Mission Memorial Intensive Care Unit following a brief illness.
    Mrs. Tait was born June 30, 1957, in St. Clair, Mich., the daughter of the late Raymond Hohmann Sr. and Virginia Barretto Hohmann.
    Anne had been a registered nurse for many years.
    She was a loving and caring mother, sister and grandmother.
    She was preceded in death by her husband, Alan Tait Jr. in 2000; a brother, Richard Hohmann, and a sister, Margaret Cothren.
    Annie was of the Traditional Roman Catholic Faith.
    Surviving Mrs. Tait are five daughters and four sons-in-law, Monica and Terry Allison of Hayesville, Sarah and Angel DeLaCruz of Murphy, Kaydee and Matt Cox of Hayesville, Teresa Tait of Franklin, Annie and Nathan Henderson of Copperhill, Tenn.; six brothers and five sisters-in-law, Joe and Sue Hohmann of Yale, Mich., John Hohmann of Hayesville, Raymond and Rosie Hohmann of Hayesville, Paul and Shevaun Hohmann of Marysville, Mich., Carl and Vonda Hohmann of Marble, Fred and Dawn Hohmann of Marble, and Vickie Hohmann of Hiawassee, Ga.; sister and brother-in-law, Theresa and Bud Bennett of St. Clair, Mich.; 12 grandchildren, Samantha, Dwain, Jesse, Caleb, Tasker, Cory, Kiersten, Klayre, Kloie MatteAnne, Isaac, Elijah and Hailey; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many other relatives and friends also survive.
    A funeral mass was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, from St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with Father Juan Areiza officiating. Special music was presented by Ron Gaucher. Maryanne Engelmann served as cantor. The following gentleman served as pallbearers: Carl, Paul, Fred, Joseph Sr., Ray Jr. and Ray Hohmann III. Serving as honorary pallbearers were John Hohmann, Dwain Cook, Caleb Cook, Cory Cox, Isaac and Elijah Henderson, Tasker Owen Jenkins, Sam Singh and Mike Majors. Interment followed in the Hohmann Family Cemetery in Hayesville.
    The family met with friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, at the funeral home.
    Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville, Ga., was in charge of the arrangements.
    You may sign the family guest book and send condolences online at www.mountainviewfuneralhome.com.

    Bobby Lee Rose, 74, passed away Saturday, Feb. 3, 2018.
    Bob was born in Patrick to parents Vicie Chambers and Frank Rose Sr.
    Bob was owner/partner of ABR Millwork until his retirement.
    Bob and his family were members of Skyland United Methodist Church for 40 years and more recently a member of Chamblee First United Methodist Church, where he taught Sunday school, served on several committees, sang in the Chancel Choir and the First Five Quintet.
    Singing was always a joy in his life, and we are sure he has a spot in the heavenly choir.
    When his children were young, he spent many hours coaching several youth sports and was a big influence in many young lives.
    He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Penelope (Penny) McCulloch Rose; his son, Casey Rose (Alicia); and his daughter, Jolee Rose Whaley
(Andrew). He loved being a PaPa to his five grandchildren, Tanner, Adley and Brody Rose, and Jordie and Tate
Whaley. He also is survived by his sisters, Donna Workman and Bonita Duckworth; his brother, Frank Rose (Opal); and a large extended family.
    A memorial service is planned for 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, at Chamblee First United Methodist Church. The church is located at 4147
Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Chamblee, GA 30341. Officiants will be the Rev. Dr. Royeese Stowe, the Revs. Carol Cook and Jeff Rogers.
    In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to “Restore II” payable to Chamblee First United Methodist Church.
    H.M. Patterson & Son – Spring Hill Chapel of Atlanta, Ga., is in charge of arrangements.

    Robert Hans Schuler passed away Thursday, Feb. 1, 2018, at home.
    He was born July 26, 1951, in Bad Pyrmont, Germany, to Gerhard and Johanna (Kroonenbergh) Schuler. The family immigrated to New York in 1955, and later moved to the Boston, Mass., area where he completed high school and college. He graduated from Tufts University with dual degrees in civil engineering and geology in 1974, and began his career with a subsidiary of Ashland Oil in Boston.
    He later worked for Ashland subsidiaries in Kentucky, Colorado, Texas, Oklahoma, Alaska and Maryland. In Oklahoma, he met and married fellow employee Marilyn (“Lyn”) Brown Schuler, and in 1985, they and their child, Cecily, were off to Miami Fla.
    Following several years in starting a branch office of a New York/New Jersey construction materials testing lab there, he established his own structural engineering and environmental/asbestos consulting firm. About 13 years ago, he joined a North Miami construction materials testing lab as their engineer and geologist.
    Robert served from 1992-98 as a member (and from 1995-98 as chair) of the City of Miami Beach Historic Preservation Board, which is responsible for the preservation and supervision of the renovation and improvements of the Miami Beach Art Deco Historic District.  Also, he served with the Miami Chapter board of the Florida Engineering Society from 1986-99, including a term as chapter president and chapter representative to the FES state board in 1996-99. His professional career encompassed numerous projects large and small, including structural and civil inspections utilizing ground penetrating radar.
    Robert’s interests were wide and varied. He was a scuba diver and instructor, licensed private pilot, caver (sometimes difficult being 6’4” tall), ocean swimmer, mountain climber, hiker, kayaker, book collector and traveler. He enjoyed book binding and repair, wood carving, ceramics repair, creating and repairing all sorts of things, and reading, reading, reading.
    Robert was happy when visiting his vacation home in far western North Carolina. He was delighted to have witnessed the total eclipse of the sun in August last year from his own front deck.  
    Robert especially loved his family – wife Lyn and daughter Cecily; only brother, Frank (Big Frank) and sister-in-law Mary; cousin Renate; brother and sister-in-law, Ray and Brigid; Uncle Sam and Aunt Faye; nephews, Charlie and Arthur; and niece, Katie; his close friends, R.Wolfson, Owen, Jim and others; and his employer/coworkers all.
    He will be long remembered and  greatly missed.  A life celebration is being planned.

    William Hugh Powell, 83, of Hayesville, passed away Monday, Feb. 5, 2018.
    He was a native of Haywood County. Hugh was a Korean War veteran, serving in the U.S. Air Force.
    Hugh was a graduate of Western Carolina University. He then graduated from the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College in Winter Park, Fla., in 1963, where he received his Master of Business Administration degree.
    Hugh returned to Hayesville from Winter Park in 1967. He established his own accounting firm, where he worked until retirement.
    Hugh enjoyed fishing and had traveled all over the country fishing in the mornings and golfing in the afternoon. He was an avid sports fan.
    Hugh loved his children and grandchildren, and was a great father and grandfather, affectionately known as “Papa.”
    He was a 32nd-degree Mason and a 59-year member of the Clay Masonic Lodge No. 301. He was a proud member of the Oasis Shriners.
    He was a member of Hayesville First United Methodist Church and served on various boards over the years.
    He was the son of the late John Nevil and Tibbie Burress Powell.
    Surviving are his wife of almost 60 years, Janet Kitchens Powell; two daughters, Shawn Powell Long and husband Darrell of Hayesville, and Lori Powell Hampton and husband Ryan of Advance; a son, Dr. John Neal “Hub” Powell and wife Kathy of Asheville; and 12 grandchildren, Zach and Chris Stiles, Drake and Peyton Long, Ashlyn, Peyton, Nathan and Lauren Hampton, and Johanna, Will, Katelyn and Megan Powell.
    Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11, in Hayesville First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Kirk Hatherly officiating. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.
    The family will receive friends from 1-2:45 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11, at Hayesville First United Methodist Church prior to the services.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of William Hugh Powell to Shriners Hospital for Children in Greenville, S.C., c/o Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Hayesville, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Jennifer Lane Peters, a resident of Murphy for more than 20 years, passed into the loving hands of our Lord and Savior on Monday, Jan. 29, 2018, after an extended illness.
    She was born in Greenport, N.Y., where she graduated from high school in 1983.
    She later moved to Florida, where she began working on her degree in occupational therapy. She completed her degree at Western Carolina University specializing in pediatric occupational therapy. She loved working with children.
    She is survived by her husband, Larry Peters; her daughter, Kayla Tatham and husband Trey; mother, Bobra Ferdenzi; stepfather, Paul Ferdenzi; father, Robert Maybeck; stepmother, Lee Rose-Reed; brother, Greg Maybeck; sisters, Darcy Bristol and Amanda Maybeck.
    She was a member of Murphy Presbyterian Church, where memorial services were held Friday, Feb. 2.

    Betty Mae Hartman, 89, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2017, as a result of congestive heart failure.
    She was born Jan. 29, 1928, in Grill, Pa. Betty and Carl Hartman were married Dec. 27, 1951, and spent almost 66 years together.
    They served in pastoral ministry in the Seventh-day Adventist Church for more than 40 years in Maryland, Virginia, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina and Iowa. Part of that time Carl served as the pastor of Seventh-day Adventist Churches in Andrews and Murphy (1978-84).
    Upon retirement, they moved back to Andrews, where they built a retirement home and lived for 20 years. Carl and Betty loved serving their community through various ministries, such as smoking cessation classes and cooking schools. They helped coordinate the monthly MANNA food program in Andrews for 10 years, which meant at least 100 distributions of produce to seniors who might not have otherwise gotten fresh food.
    Because of failing health, Carl and Betty had to leave their beloved home in Andrews and move to an assisted living center near Nashville, Tenn., in October 2016.
    A memorial service was held Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2018, at the Hendersonville, Tenn., Adventist Church.
    Betty is survived by her husband, Carl; and two sons, David (Judi) Hartman of Portland, Tenn., and John (Harriet) Hartman of Knoxville, Tenn.; also two grandchildren, Matthew (Lis) Hartman of Memphis, Tenn., and Beth (Ben) Crerar of Ooltewah, Tenn.
    Feel free to send condolences to DavidLHartman@bellsouth.net.

    Troy Wayne Simonds, 86, of Ducktown, Tenn., passed away Thursday, Feb. 1, 2018.
    Troy was born in Murphy to the late H. Waldo and Anna Mae Satterfield Simonds.
    He attended Ducktown United Methodist Church.
    Mr. Simonds proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.
    He was retired from Tennessee Chemical in labor relations and served as an arbitrator.
    Since age 12, he has made music with his guitar and had become a very accomplished musician. He released his first CD in 2003, “Just Troy, Just Country.”
    He is survived by his loving wife, Billie Simonds of the home; daughter and son-in-law, Jan (Rick) Moberg; brother, Steve Simonds; sisters, Dolores Sisson and June Hauck; seven grandchildren, Kienan Bjorkland, Regan Powers, Keslie Scott Andres Bjorkland, Sven Moberg, Erik Moberg and Elsie Moberg; seven great-grandchildren;  and many other relatives and friends.
    Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6, from the Akins of Copperhill Chapel with Chaplain Janet Moberg officiating. Music was by the Rev. Doug Simonds. Interment followed in the Crestlawn Cemetery.
    Condolences to the family may be sent online to www.akinsfuneralhome.com.
    Akins Funeral Home of Copperhill, Tenn., was in charge of the arrangements.

    Mona Lee Taylor Cook, 88, of Brasstown, went home to be with her Lord on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2018.
    Mona was born Feb. 11, 1929, to the late Samuel Fred Taylor and Laura Hall Taylor, and was the wife of the late Charles “Ebb” Cook, whom she loved from the young age of 16 until her last breath. She also was preceded in death by eight siblings.
    Mona loved her God, her family and her church with her whole heart. She was the strongest, most amazing woman we have ever known.
She grew up part of her childhood in Unaka before moving to Martins Creek and later to Brasstown, where she raised her children.
    Mona spent her life dedicated to her children and worked with all her might to supply and care for them.
    Mona also took care of many other children through the years. She babysat many who still love her deeply.
    Mona was a substitute teacher for a number of years, something she loved to do.
    Her favorite Bible verse and quote for life was “Be still and know that I am God.” She believed and held firmly to that belief.
    Mona enjoyed gardening, canning, sewing, crocheting, but working in her flowers took first place. Mona had a love for flowers that was unsurpassed. If you wanted to make her happy and see a big smile, just bring in a few flowers.
    Mona’s love for life will be carried on by her children and grandchildren.
    It is hard to say goodbye to one we love so much, so for now we will say, “See you later.” Heaven has gained an angel and a huge piece of our hearts. Thank you for your years of devotion. We love you.
    Surviving are 11 children, Cliff and Judy Cook of Cottage Grove, Ore., Christine and Donnie Taylor of Andrews, Carmel and Steve Coker of Chattanooga, Tenn., Fred and Wanda Cook of Warne, Eddie and Ginger Cook of Murphy, Ronnie and Connie Cook of Marion, Ky., Donnie and Wanda Cook of Hayesville, Teresa and David Laney of Brasstown, Brenda Cook of Murphy, Randy and Sheila Cook of Brasstown, and Ramona and Gary Brown of Brasstown; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She has one surviving sister, Roma Graham, whom she loved very much.
    She also is survived by a wonderful companion, her little dog, Heidi, to whom she devoted the last 11 years of her life. Heidi rules the roost, was petted rotten and loved her “mama” as much as she was loved.
    Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Revs. Hoyt Brown and Aud Brown officiating. The interment will be in the Old Fashioned Baptist Church Cemetery. Grandsons and great-grandsons will serve as both pallbearers and honorary pallbearers.
    The family received friends from 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Mrs. Sheila Phillips of Bonaire, Ga., passed away Sunday, Feb. 4, 2018, at Houston Medical Center.
    Mrs. Phillips was born Jan. 6, 1941, in Malden, Essex, England, to the late Joe and Doris Mae King.
    A retiree at Robins Air Force Base, she was a past First Lady of Al-Sihah Shrine Cente, where she organized the Forget-Me-Nots, a group for widows of Shriners.  Mrs. Phillips also enjoyed being a member of the Red Hat Society, as well as the Houston County Shrine Ladies’ Auxiliary. She enjoyed volunteering at numerous public services, including at the Georgia National Fair and as receptionist at the Museum of Aviation.
    During her husband Harley’s military career, she always made sure to maintain their household and provide a loving home for her family.
    Mrs. Phillips was of the Baptist faith, loved to travel and shop, and spend time with her family.  
    In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Brian.
    Mrs. Phillips leaves behind her loving and devoted husband of 59 years, Harley; a brother, Alan and two nieces, Alice and Louisa, all of Braintree, Essex, England; and a sister-in-law, Christine.
    Visitation was held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at McCullough Funeral Home in Warner Robins, Ga. A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home.
    Afterwards, Mrs. Phillips was laid to rest at 2 p.m. in Andersonville National Cemetery.
    In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of Sheila Doris May Phillips to the Al-Sihah Shriners Hospital and Patient Transportation Fund, 222 Mecca Dr., Macon, GA 31205-3147.
    Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the online registry for the family.  
    McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory in Warner Robins, Ga., has the privilege of being entrusted with Mrs. Phillips’s arrangements.

    Mattie Belle Laney Watts, 86, of Snider Road, Lexington, died Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018, at her home after declining health.
    A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 19, at Moss Cemetery in Marble with the Rev. Rondal Ford officiating.
    The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, at Davidson Funeral Home in Lexington and other times at the home.
    Mrs. Watts was born March 5, 1931, in Cherokee County to Franklin Laney and Lillie Bradshaw Laney. She was a homemaker and was preceded in death by her husband, Venson Burton Watts; her sons, Milton Watts and Johnny Watts; and her daughter, Judith Ann Watts. She also was preceded in death by her brothers and sisters, Elmer Laney, Billy Laney, Deveraux Laney, Hazel Luther, Intha Eubank, Mary Lee Hoskins and Jessie Mae Watson.
    She is survived by her sons, Terry Watts (Kathy) of Lexington, and Timothy Watts of China Grove; her daughters, Nancy Watts and Mitzi Tysinger (Cecil), both of Lexington; her brother, Brownie Laney of Welcome; her sister, Coy Crotts of Welcome; 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
    The family would like to extend special thanks to Hospice of Davidson County for all the love and concern shown to the family.

    Mrs. Sheila Phillips of Bonaire, Ga., passed away Sunday, Feb. 4, 2018, at Houston Medical Center.
    Mrs. Phillips was born Jan. 6, 1941, in Malden, Essex, England, to the late Joe and Doris Mae King.
    A retiree at Robins Air Force Base, she was a past First Lady of Al-Sihah Shrine Cente, where she organized the Forget-Me-Nots, a group for widows of Shriners.  Mrs. Phillips also enjoyed being a member of the Red Hat Society, as well as the Houston County Shrine Ladies’ Auxiliary.
    She enjoyed volunteering at numerous public services, including at the Georgia National Fair and as receptionist at the Museum of Aviation.
    During her husband Harley’s military career, she always made sure to maintain their household and provide a loving home for her family.
    Mrs. Phillips was of the Baptist faith, loved to travel and shop, and spend time with her family.  
    In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Brian.
    Mrs. Phillips leaves behind her loving and devoted husband of 59 years, Harley; a brother, Alan and two nieces, Alice and Louisa, all of Braintree, Essex, England; and a sister-in-law, Christine.
    Visitation was held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at McCullough Funeral Home in Warner Robins, Ga.
    A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home. Mrs. Phillips was laid to rest afterwards at 2 p.m. in Andersonville National Cemetery.
    In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of Sheila Doris May Phillips to the Al-Sihah Shriners Hospital and Patient Transportation Fund, 222 Mecca Drive, Macon, GA 31205-3147.
    Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the online registry for the family.
    McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory in Warner Robins, Ga., has the privilege of being entrusted with Mrs. Phillips’ arrangements.

    Troy Wayne Simonds, 86, of Ducktown, Tenn., passed away Thursday, Feb. 1, 2018.
    Troy was born in Murphy to the late H. Waldo and Anna Mae Satterfield Simonds.
    He attended Ducktown United Methodist Church.
    Mr. Simonds proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
    He was retired from Tennessee Chemical Co. in labor relations and served as an arbitrator.
    Since age 12, he has made music with his guitar and had become a very accomplished musician. He released his first CD in 2003, Just Troy, Just Country.
    He is survived by his loving wife, Billie Simonds of the home; daughter and son-in-law, Jan (Rick) Moberg; brother, Steve Simonds; sisters, Dolores Sisson and June Hauck; seven grandchildren, Kienan Bjorkland, Regan Powers, Keslie Scott Andres Bjorkland, Sven Moberg, Erik Moberg and Elsie Moberg; seven great-grandchildren;  and many other relatives and friends.
    Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6, from the Akins of Copperhill Chapel with Chaplain Janet Moberg officiating. Music was by the Rev. Doug Simonds.
    Interment followed in the Crestlawn Cemetery.
    Condolences to the family may be sent online to www.akinsfuneralhome.com.
    Akins Funeral Home of Copperhill, Tenn., was in charge of the arrangements.

    Mattie Belle Laney Watts, 86, of Snider Road in Lexington, died Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018, at her home after declining health.
    A graveside service was held at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12, at Moss Cemetery in Marble with the Rev. Rondal Ford officiating.
    The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at Davidson Funeral Home in Lexington and other times at the home.
    Mrs. Watts was born March 5, 1931, in Cherokee County to Franklin Laney and Lillie Bradshaw Laney. She was a homemaker and was preceded in death by her husband, Venson Burton Watts; her sons, Milton Watts and Johnny Watts; and her daughter, Judith Ann Watts. She also was preceded in death by her brothers and sisters, Elmer Laney, Billy Laney, Deveraux Laney, Hazel Luther, Intha Eubank, Mary Lee Hoskins and Jessie Mae Watson.
    She is survived by her sons, Terry Watts (Kathy) of Lexington, and Timothy Watts of China Grove; her daughters, Nancy Watts and Mitzi Tysinger (Cecil), both of Lexington; her brother, Brownie Laney of Welcome; her sister, Coy Crotts of Welcome; 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
    The family would like to extend special thanks to Hospice of Davidson County for all the love and concern shown to the family.

    Mona Lee Taylor Cook, 88, of Brasstown, went home to be with her Lord on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2018.
    Mona was born Feb. 11, 1929, to the late Samuel Fred Taylor and Laura Hall Taylor, and was the wife of the late Charles “Ebb” Cook, whom she loved from the young age of 16 until her last breath. She also was preceded in death by eight siblings.
    Mona loved her God, her family and her church with her whole heart. She was the strongest, most amazing woman we have ever known.
She grew up part of her childhood in Unaka before moving to Martins Creek and later to Brasstown, where she raised her children.
    Mona spent her life dedicated to her children and worked with all her might to supply and care for them.
    Mona also took care of many other children through the years. She babysat many who still love her deeply.
    Mona was a substitute teacher for a number of years, something she loved to do.
    Her favorite Bible verse and quote for life was “Be still and know that I am God.” She believed and held firmly to that belief.
    Mona enjoyed gardening, canning, sewing, crocheting, but working in her flowers took first place. Mona had a love for flowers that was unsurpassed. If you wanted to make her happy and see a big smile, just bring in a few flowers.
    Mona’s love for life will be carried on by her children and grandchildren.
    It is hard to say goodbye to one we love so much, so for now we will say, “See you later.” Heaven has gained an angel and a huge piece of our hearts. Thank you for your years of devotion. We love you.
    Surviving are 11 children, Cliff and Judy Cook of Cottage Grove, Ore., Christine and Donnie Taylor of Andrews, Carmel and Steve Coker of Chattanooga, Tenn., Fred and Wanda Cook of Warne, Eddie and Ginger Cook of Murphy, Ronnie and Connie Cook of Marion, Ky., Donnie and Wanda Cook of Hayesville, Teresa and David Laney of Brasstown, Brenda Cook of Murphy, Randy and Sheila Cook of Brasstown, and Ramona and Gary Brown of Brasstown; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She has one surviving sister, Roma Graham, whom she loved very much.
    She also is survived by a wonderful companion, her little dog, Heidi, to whom she devoted the last 11 years of her life. Heidi rules the roost, was petted rotten and loved her “mama” as much as she was loved.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, in the chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, with the Revs. Hoyt Brown and Aud Brown officiating. The interment was in Old Fashioned Baptist Church Cemetery. Grandsons served as both pallbearers and honorary pallbearers.
    The family received friends from 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, at Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, was in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhomeinc.com.

    Gordon Lee Bell, 82, a master mason of Murphy, passed away Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018, at Macon Valley Nursing Home in Franklin.
    He was preceded in death by his mother, Evelyn Blossom; his father Clarence Bell; and his son, John “Jackie” Meyer.
    He leaves behind the love of his life, Madeline “momma;” two daughters, Karen McDonald “John,” and Linda Alian “Magdi;” his grandchildren, Fred Williams “Tracie” of Fletcher, Julian Penn of Fletcher, Joseph Vasquez of Fletcher, Shaun McNamara of Pennsylvania and Kayla Coryell “Josh” of Summerville; his great-grandchildren, Mason, Teigan, Elijah, Little Fred and Shelby. Gordon also had extended family and friends spanning from Florida to Michigan.
    He will be missed by all his loved ones and thought of until we can all meet again.We all love you, Gordy.
    You may send tributes to the Bell family at www.townson-rose.com.
    Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.

    Clifford Frank Wilbur, 86, of Brasstown, passed away Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018.
    Clifford was the beloved husband of the late Doris Underwood, and father of Vicki Wilbur of Brasstown, Kathy Marchese and Karen Niemczyk of Massachusetts, and six grandchildren. 
    He served proudly in the Korean War and worked as a realtor before retiring and following his passion as an avid gardener.
    Cochran Funeral Home, Murphy, www.cochanfuneralhomes.com, was in charge of arrangements.

    Allen Dockery passed away Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018, at Shannondale Nursing Facility at age 98.
    He was born and raised in the Hanging Dog Community located outside Murphy.
    He moved to Maryville, Tenn., to work at the Alcoa Aluminum Co.
    In World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy on the U.S.S. Gantner. This ship was in Tokyo Bay after the atomic bomb was dropped.
    He retired from Alcoa Aluminum Co. and was a member of the 25 Year Club. He enjoyed raising Angus cattle, growing tobacco, planting gardens, beekeeping, and he specially loved music.
    After retirement he went to many community centers and nursing homes to sing and play his guitar. He accepted Jesus at age 15 and was a member of Morning Star Baptist Church. He faithfully attended Sunday morning services until recently. 
    He was preceded in death by his parents, Wiley and Mattie Hembree Dockery; wife, Ethel Rose Dockery; sisters and their husbands, Bessie (Earnest) Parkhurst, Ora (John) Yancey, Nettie (Bill) Rupp and Helen (Bill) Coffey; brothers and their wives, Leonard (Mildred) and Henry (Lillian) Dockery.
    Survivors include sons, Marvin Dockery and Charles (Sandra) Dockery; daughters, Fran Whiteman and Kathy (Steve) Myers; grandchildren, Lisa (Andrew) Boyce, Heather (Bren) Wells, Neil (fiancee Rebeca) Whiteman, Robyn (Todd) Rameriz, Allen (Samantha) and Ben (Gena) Dockery, Matt (Lucretia) Myers, and Ashlee (David) Ivens; Great-Grandchildren, Jarrod Combs, Ryan and Isabel Boyce, Marley and Sofia Smith, Roen Wells, Madison and William Rameriz, Landon and Lillian Myers, Virginia and Irene Dockery, Sawyer Ivens; step granddaughter, Alanna Savage; brother, Ray Dockery; sister, Gladys (Vernon) Davis; special friend and former daughter-in-law, Lois Dockery; special nephew, Ed Dockery, and many other nieces and nephews.
    The family wishes to thank the staff at Shannondale Nursing Facilit, where he made his home for the last four years, and two very special caregivers, Pat Boyles and Helen Headrick, who brightened his days.
    The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16, at Smith Trinity Chapel. The funeral service will follow at 7 p.m.
    Family and friends will assemble for entombment at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, at Sherwood Memorial Gardens.
    Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, Tenn., 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.