Robert “Bob” Jonathan Arowood
September 9, 2026
Robert “Bob” Jonathan Arowood, 61, of Clinton passed away peacefully Sept. 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and close friends.
Born July 20, 1965, to William H. and Bobbie Arowood, Bob was a lifelong resident of Anderson County and a member of First Baptist Church in Clinton. In the summer of 1984, he met his devoted and loving wife, Karen Arowood, at the Fourth of July fireworks, beginning a life together that would span more than four decades.
Bob was widely known for his remarkable career as an entrepreneur and business leader, but his greatest source of pride was always his family. Bob and Karen built a life together that remained at the center of everything he did. Their son, Reid, was one of the greatest joys of Bob’s life, and the three shared an exceptionally close bond. Whether traveling together, celebrating milestones, sharing meals or simply spending time at home, Bob was happiest when he was with his family.
Selfless and extraordinarily generous, Bob instinctively took care of the people around him. He supported his family, friends, employees and community, often quietly and without expecting anything in return. Throughout his life and career, Bob built more than businesses — he built lasting relationships. He never met a stranger and had a natural ability to connect with people, making those around him feel welcome, valued and cared for.
Bob’s career in insurance began while he was still in high school, working at his family’s small insurance agency in Clinton. Over the decades that followed, he helped transform that family business into a nationally recognized insurance enterprise. His many accomplishments, awards and achievements reflected an extraordinary career, yet Bob never sought attention or recognition for his success. He remained deeply committed to Anderson County, keeping his business headquartered close to home and creating hundreds of jobs in the community where he grew up.
For all that Bob accomplished, he cherished life’s simple pleasures most: quiet evenings on his back porch overlooking the Clinch River, grilling for family and friends, and simply being at home surrounded by the people he loved. Bob was well known for his sweet tooth. He loved turning dessert, ice cream or a favorite treat into an excuse to gather, celebrate or simply make someone’s day a little better.
He also had a lifelong love for his beagles, including Roxy Nicole, who preceded him in death, and his beloved rescue beagles, Ruby Ann and Lily Bell, who brought him constant joy and companionship.
Above all else, Bob was a devoted husband and father. Of everything he built and accomplished throughout his life, nothing meant more to him than the life he shared with Karen and Reid. His greatest legacy is not measured by what he built, but by the love he gave so freely and the people whose lives were made better because he was part of them. Bob will be deeply missed, but the love, laughter, friendships and memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Bob was preceded in death by his grandparents, Carl and Enid Arrowood and Archie and Arbree Peterson; father-in-law, Bobby G. Utley; beloved beagle, Roxy Nicole; and other loved ones who will be remembered fondly.
He is survived by his wife, Karen Arowood; son, Reid Arowood; parents, William H. and Bobbie Arowood; brother, William M. Arowood and wife, Robin; nephew, Chad Arowood; uncle, John Arrowood; mother-in-law, Wanda Sue Utley; brother-in-law, Brad Utley; nephews, Carson and Carter Utley; niece, Camryn Utley; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
A private service will be held for the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Bob’s memory to one or both of the following:
SOS Beagles — Tennessee
Online donations may be made at https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/21995.
UT Medical Center — Stephens Cancer Care Fund
Online donations may be made at https://www.utmedical.org/give-now, under “I would like to support,” select “Other” and enter “Stephens Fund.”
Gifts may also be mailed to:
Office of Philanthropy
2121 Medical Center Way, Suite 110
Knoxville, TN 37920
Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of arrangements. holleygamble.com
Robert D. Ray
September 2, 2026
Robert D. Ray, 91, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and formerly of Clinton, passed away Sept. 2, 2026. He was born in South Bend, Indiana, to Dean Robert and Elizabeth Magdelina Ray.
Robert spent his career as a manager in manufacturing. After retirement, he worked in sales at Mayo Garden Center in Knoxville, a perfect job for an avid gardener. He also enjoyed woodworking and golfing in his free time.
Robert is survived by his siblings, Norma Proteau, Susan Mundy and Don Ray; and several nieces and nephews, including his niece and caregiver, Erica Drummond and husband, Scott.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Ray; parents, Dean Robert and Elizabeth Magdelina Ray; and sister, Nancy Soos.
At Robert’s request, there will be no services at this time.
Memorials may be made to The Landing with Associated Churches of Fort Wayne and Allen County. (associatedchurches.org/the-landing)
To sign the online guestbook, visit the FairHaven Funeral Home website at fairhavenfortwayne.com.
Paul Thomas Ford
September 1, 2026
Paul Thomas Ford, 58, of Rocky Top, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Paul was born Feb. 28, 1968, in Kettering, Ohio. He graduated from Xenia High School with the Class of 1986.
Paul was an avid fisherman who loved being near the water with a fishing pole in his hand. Whether enjoying the peacefulness of the lake or fishing with those he loved, fishing brought him great joy. Above all, Paul loved his family, and the memories they made together will be treasured forever.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Megan Marie; mother, Diana G. LeMaster; father, Thomas L. Ford; and mother-in-law, Mary Thomas.
Paul is survived by his loving wife, Tammy Ford; son, Brian Ford and wife, Gail; daughter, Tiffany Roberts and husband, Zach; son-in-law, Cody Marie; grandchildren, Ayden Roberts, Laiken Roberts, Abigail Ford and Willow Ford; and bonus grandson, Rylan Marie.
He is also survived by his sisters, Tammy Ray and husband, Coy, Serena Martz, and Bridgette Hasty and husband, Henry; special sister, Janet Weatherly; father-in-law, Johnny Thomas; special uncle and aunt, Howard and Flossie Ford; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Paul will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. Although he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that he is now at home with the Lord.
The family received friends from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, 2026. The funeral followed at 7 p.m., officiated by the Rev. Cody Wright and the Rev. Brian Ford.
Family and friends met at Sunset Cemetery in Clinton for a graveside service at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026.
Mott-McKamey Funeral Home and Cremations assisted the Ford family.
Tommy Lynn Rhea Sr.
August 30, 2026
Tommy Lynn Rhea Sr., 82, passed away Aug. 30, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a family who loved him beyond measure.
Born June 27, 1944, to Mabel and Omer Rhea, Tommy lived a life defined by hard work, loyalty and, above all, love for his family.
A proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Tommy honorably served his country before beginning what would become an extraordinary 48-year career at the Y-12 Nuclear Facility. His many years of dedicated service reflected the strong work ethic and commitment that were such an important part of who he was.
Away from work, Tommy enjoyed the simple things that brought him happiness. He loved hunting and fishing and was an avid University of Tennessee Volunteers football fan. Few things could compete with a Saturday spent cheering on the Vols.
But more than any career accomplishment, favorite pastime or football game, Tommy’s greatest love was his family. He loved them dearly and treasured the time they shared together. His presence, stories, laughter and love created memories that his family will carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Tommy is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Tommy (Kim), Timothy and Amber (Jay); grandchildren, Anastasia, Timothy II and Caden; brothers, Ron (Lulu) and John (Sally); and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mabel and Omer Rhea; brother, Roy; and sister, Patty.
Tommy’s 82 years were filled with hard work, service to his country, devotion to his family and the things he loved most.
While his absence leaves a place that can never truly be filled, those who loved him will find comfort in the memories they made with him and in knowing that a life so deeply woven into a family is never truly gone.
He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered and forever carried in the hearts of his family.
No services are planned at this time.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home is proud to serve the Rhea family.
holleygamble.com
Evie Rose
August 27, 2026
Evie Rose passed away on Aug. 27, 2026. She was born March 24, 1952.
She is survived by her brother, Clyde; and sisters, Dollie, Ethel and Sally.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Dollie Rose; and sisters, Hazel, Linda and Reba, all of Heiskell.
The family would like to extend special thanks to Jamie and Anatanina, hospice nurses with Gentiva Hospice Care, for their wonderful and compassionate care.
The family received friends from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home.
The service followed at 1 p.m. at the funeral home.
A graveside service was held at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Cemetery in Andersonville.
Evie Rose
August 27, 2026
Evie Rose passed away on Aug. 27, 2026. She was born March 14, 1952.
She is survived by her brother, Clyde; and sisters, Dollie, Ethel and Sally.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Dollie Rose; and sisters, Hazel, Linda and Reba, all of Heiskell.
The family would like to extend special thanks to Jamie and Anatanina, hospice nurses with Gentiva Hospice Care, for their wonderful and compassionate care.
The family received friends from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home.
The service followed at 1 p.m. at the funeral home.
A graveside service was held at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Cemetery in Andersonville.
Robert “Robby” Gordon
August 26, 2026
Robert “Robby” Gordon, 86, a lifelong resident of Anderson County, passed away peacefully at his residence Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026.
Robby was born July 25, 1940, in Anderson County to Robert A. and Juanita Moser.
He graduated from Clinton High School in 1958 and proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps. Following his military service, he returned home to Anderson County, where he spent much of his life doing what he loved most — working the land and caring for his cattle on the family farm.
A longtime cattleman and farmer, Robby took great pride in the farm and the life he built there. Farming was more than an occupation; it was a way of life. He treasured the many years spent tending to his cattle, working the land and carrying on the traditions of his family farm. His deep roots in Anderson County and dedication to agriculture were an important part of who he was throughout his life.
In accordance with Robby’s wishes, there will be no formal service.
His friends and loved ones will honor his memory privately and remember a life deeply connected to family, farming and the Anderson County community he called home.
Mary Alice M. Cox
August 25, 2026
Mary Alice M. Cox, 95, of Clinton passed away at home on Aug. 25, 2026, after a short hospital stay. She was born in Clinton on Sept. 19, 1930, to James S. and Gertrude McGhee.
Mary graduated from Clinton High School and Knoxville Business College. She was a member of Sinking Springs United Methodist Church.
After business college, Mary worked as a secretary for department heads in engineering and chemistry at Maxon Construction Co. in Oak Ridge and Union Carbide Nuclear Corp. at the Y-12 plant. She later took 10 years away from the workforce to be a homemaker and spend time with her daughter.
In 1966, Mary returned to work, joining The Clinton Courier News. During her career at the newspaper, she wrote and edited news, created lifestyle and church pages, wrote obituaries and feature stories, covered other news as needed and took photographs. She also wrote Senior Cuisine and published the cookbook “The Recipe Box” for the Courier. She retired after 28 years with the newspaper.
After retiring from the Courier, Mary wrote for Senior Living Newspaper of Oak Ridge and proofread a monthly publication for the Tennessee Press Association in Knoxville.
From 1962 to 1971, she led Girl Scout Brownie, Junior and Cadette troops and served as a troop organizer. Beginning in 2005, she served as secretary for Norris United Methodist Church for four years.
Mary collected cookbooks and loved to cook and bake. Many of her recipes were published in Southern Living magazine.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bennie L. Cox; parents, James S. and Gertrude McGhee; and brother, James A. McGhee.
Mary is survived by her daughter, Leigh Ann Payne and husband, Stephen, of Clinton; brother, Eddie McGhee and wife, Kay, of Clinton; and several nieces and nephews.
The family received friends Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home. A graveside service followed at Norris Memorial Gardens, with Pastor Brandon Berg officiating.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Amedisys Hospice Care team for its loving care and support.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home is proud to serve the Cox family.
holleygamble.com
