Donal Lee Sharp
January 25, 2026
Donal Lee Sharp, 80, of Heiskell went to be with the Lord Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026.
He was a member of Deep Springs Baptist Church in Heiskell.
Donal worked as a logger in his younger years and also built homes and farmed. He was a quiet man until you got to know him — but to know him was to love him. He was a devoted family man who loved his children and grandchildren dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Odra Lee and Beulah Mae Sharp.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sandra Sharp; son, Franklin Sharp and wife, Amber; daughter, Donna Heath; grandchildren, Kaylee Raines (David), Emmalee Heath, Brandon Heath, Maggie Sharp and Johnse Sharp; and many special friends.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, at Jones Mortuary in Clinton, with a funeral to follow at 7 p.m. with the Revs. Matthew Prosise and Dale Parker officiating.
A graveside service and interment will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at Wolf Valley Cemetery in Heiskell with the Rev. James Hamock officiating.
Jones Mortuary of Clinton is honored to serve the family of Donal Lee Sharp.
Melvina Janie Bridges
January 18, 2026
Melvina Janie Bridges, 81, of Rocky Top went to be with the Lord on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026.
She had a strong testimony of faith and was a faithful, longtime member of West Side Baptist Church. Known lovingly as “Mamaw” and “Nanny” to many, Melvina never turned away anyone in need.
She enjoyed cooking, fishing, camping, hunting ginseng and tending to her flowers.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Georgia Walker; husband, Lawrence Bridges; sister, Carolyn West; and great-grandchild, Savannah Kohler.
Melvina memory is carried on by her beloved children, the Rev. Eddie and Anna Bridges of Clinton, and Rebecca and David Brooks of Heiskell; grandchildren, Melinda Mayes and Jay Smith, the Rev. Jeremy and LeeAnn Bridges, and Jennifer and Jarred Stephens; great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Wendy Kohler, Ryan Mays, Lula Bridges, Elsie Bridges, Jeb Bridges, Ruby Bridges and James Bridges; and great-great-grandchild, Savannah-Grace Kohler.
She is also survived by brothers, the Rev. David and Diane Walker of Lake City, and Gary and Frances Walker of Lake City; sisters, Kathy Jenkins of Caryville, Debbie and Joe Harness of Caryville, and Donna and Brian Carlton of Clinton; and close friend and neighbor, Joan Leonard.
A private viewing was held Wednesday, Jan. 21, at Jones Mortuary in Clinton. A graveside service and interment took place Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, at Mountain View Cemetery in Rocky Top, with the Rev. Jeremy Bridges and the Rev. Kyle McDowell officiating.
Jones Mortuary of Clinton is honored to have served the family of Melvina Bridges.
Billie Charles ‘Bill’ Russell
January 17, 2026
Billie Charles “Bill” Russell, 71, of Clinton, passed away Friday, Jan. 17, 2026, at The Waters of Clinton.
The family extends special thanks to the staff and nurses at The Waters for taking great care of him.
Bill was preceded in death by his father, Billie Gene Russell; brothers, John Russell and Tom Russell; and sister, Jenny Bradfield.
He is survived by his mother, Margarete Russell; sister-in-law, Carla Brewer, and her children, Stephen Shipley and Matthew Davis; brother-in-law, Rick Bradfield; and nieces and nephews, Jade Russell (and fiancé Matt Garrett), Danieal Boliver, Renee Taylor, Allie Rosenbalm, Canon Martin, Luke Rosenbalm, Landrie Rosenbalm, Stacey York (and husband Jeff York), Aaron York, Andrew York and Amber York. He is also survived by special friends, Jeremy and Joshua Hargett.
Per his request, no formal services were held. However, visitation took place from 1 to 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton.
A graveside service followed at 3:30 p.m. at Grandview Memorial Garden.
The family is forever grateful to all who cared for Bill throughout his 71 years.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home is honored to have served the Russell family.
holleygamble.com
Ollie Sue Livingston
January 15, 2026
Ollie Sue Livingston, 74, of Clinton passed away Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, at Methodist Medical Center.
She was born Jan. 10, 1952, to Denver Green and Lucille Robbins. Ollie enjoyed bird watching, gardening in her flower beds and spending time with her beloved family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Denver and Lucille Green.
She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Larry Livingston; sons, Matthew Livingston and wife Lindsay, and Marcus Livingston; a sister, Emma Gene; and six grandchildren.
Visitation was held from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home Chapel in Clinton.
The funeral followed at 7 p.m. Interment will be at 3 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, at Grandview Memorial Garden in Clinton.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. holleygamble.com
Jack Rucker
January 14, 2026
Jack Rucker, 77, took his last breath Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, at around 7:10 p.m., with his beloved wife, Beth, by his side.
Jack began life Sept. 18, 1948, in LaFollette, Tennessee. Shortly after, his family moved to Upland, California, where he spent the first 30 years of his life. In California, he is remembered with love by his niece, Lori, and nephew, Jimmy, along with other cherished family members. Early on in his California life, he met Joe Cebellas and promptly nicknamed him ‘Pinky.” They remained lifelong devoted friends.
An adventurer at heart, Jack was known for his keen curiosity regarding those around him. His journey eventually brought him back to Tennessee — Andersonville, specifically — where he met up with many new friends and cohorts in his multiple escapades. In 1995, he met Beth, a good-looking blonde with beautiful eyes and a fiercely loving personality. Their first date was over pizza at Mr. Gatti’s, subsequently finding themselves on long meandering drives and very shortly realizing they belonged together in a love which endured. Their adventures were numerous and, sometimes, notorious. Each was talkative and engaging, acquiring multiple friendships along the way.
In honor of Jack’s gift for friendly chat, Beth nicknamed him ‘Jaws’. He spent countless hours with friends at Tommy’s Garage, where he worked on cars and swapped stories. He considered Tommy Martin and Joe Alley his brothers. “Talk time” with Dennis York — also considered a brother — at the Git n Go along with other numerous friends in the Andersonville and Clinton areas made Jack’s life fun and full. These comrades and their families became Jack and Beth’s family.
He was especially close to Jaime and Hugo, co-owners of Habaneros Restaurants. Years ago, they nicknamed him “Cheech and Chong” after he pulled up in his roadster — yet another nickname was born.. Jack proudly played Santa Claus at the restaurant and treasured the time he spent there.
As Jack and Beth merged their friendships, each considered the other’s friends their own allies as well. Beth’s friend, Georgia, became a trusted marble-playing partner and confidante to Jack, especially in recent years. He also held deep appreciation for Marion Davis and many other neighbors and friends. His neighbors Jessica and Ryan, along with their children, Marky, Esco and Jack, brought joy and laughter during difficult times.
There was a very special spot in Jack’s heart for a young man with a warm giving soul and a special haircut which elicited a nickname ‘Freeway’.
Among Jack’s most cherished relationships was with Roy “Freeway” Trujillo, a young man he and Beth came to love like a son. Jack held deep pride in Freeway’s success as a restaurant owner and father.
There are truly too many friends to name. They know who they are. Jack was sincere with his friendship and appreciation for others in his life.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Jim Rucker and Gert Smith; his brothers, Tommy and Jimmy Rucker; and his uncle, Jack Rucker.
Jack loved and is loved passionately in return by his wife, Beth. He is also survived by his cousin Debbie Reed, for whom he held a special regard; many other beloved cousins; and a host of dear friends who were like family. Jack’s in-laws—David, Elaine, Ellen and Andrew—and their families loved and appreciated him deeply. He had a particularly close bond with Erin Torbett, whom he considered more daughter than niece.
Jack was deeply loved and will be missed by all who knew him.
A celebration of life will be held Monday, Jan. 26, at Vista De Rio Restaurant, 1625 Oak Ridge Highway, Clinton. Friends and family are welcome to gather any time after 1 p.m. The celebration will continue as long as stories are shared and memories are honored.
Robert Stanley French
January 13, 2026
Robert Stanley French, 76, of Anderson County bid farewell to this world on Jan. 13, 2026.
He was born on June 21, 1949, in Knoxville. A proud graduate of Carter High School, Robert was known for his athletic talent. Following his passion for service, he later served in the U.S. Army, demonstrating his commitment to his country.
Robert found joy in the outdoors — fishing quiet waters and camping under the stars were among his favorite pastimes. He was known for his quick wit. He had a natural talent for lightening the mood with his jokes and charming personality.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James French and Nellie Smith French.
Robert will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by his son, Robert “Tyler” French of Clinton; brothers, Jim French and wife Lisa of Sevierville, and Mike French and wife Janis of Strawberry Plains; sisters, Glenda Brock of Clinton, and Rebecca Donehew of Virginia. He is also survived by his special friend, Mylina French of Andersonville, and several nieces and nephews.
A man of integrity, Robert Stanley French leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will continue to warm the hearts of those who knew him..
Visitation was held from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home, with the funeral following. Interment will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, at Cate Cemetery in New Market.
Charles K. Yarnell
January 10, 2026
Charles K. Yarnell went to be with his Heavenly Father and the loved ones who preceded him on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026.
Charles retired from Clinton Utilities Board after 45 years of service, where he worked as an electrical lineman and in the service department. Upon retirement, he devoted his time to farming. He loved caring for his cattle and growing vegetables for those he loved. A farmer at heart, Charles lived a life rooted in the soil, the seasons and his family. Whether tending his fields at sunrise or sharing stories at sunset, he found peace and purpose in the honest work of the land.
He is survived by his loving ex-wife, Brenda Yarnell, whose enduring friendship remained an important part of his life; a devoted sister, Mary Ann Bullock, who stood by him through his life; son, Chris Yarnell, who was his greatest pride; cherished grandchildren, Lilly and Logan Yarnell, who brought him endless laughter and joy; and numerous cousins.
Charles was known for his quiet strength, gentle humor and deep respect for hard work. His legacy lives on in the fields he worked, the values he passed down, and the family who will carry his memory forward with love. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to South Clinton Baptist Church or the Clinton High School Future Farmers of America club, where Charles once served as FFA president.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home. A funeral will follow at 7 p.m. with the Rev. Roger Pugh officiating. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Zion Baptist Church Cemetery.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home is proud to serve the Yarnell family.
holleygamble.com
Nyta Joyce Wall
January 7, 2026
“She Runs Among the Flowers of Heaven”
Nyta Joyce Wall of Claxton went to the arms of her Heavenly Father and was reunited with her husband, Pete, on Jan. 7, 2026, at 11:53 a.m.
Nyta was known for her strong work ethic, working from a young age until life eventually slowed her down. She began her career at a soda fountain as a teenager and later ran a 50-mile paper route for the Knoxville News Sentinel. She was always busy. After earning an associate degree in accounting, she went on to serve as a deputy clerk for the Anderson County Circuit Court, retiring after 36 years.
Nyta’s passions included running and gardening in her yard. You could always find her working outside tending to her flowers, bushes, and trees. She had the most-beautiful yard in the spring and summer, and was very proud of it as she tended it all on her own. She was also a runner for more than 40 years, running in 5K races, and only stopping for ice or snow. Her favorite run was the Alum Cave Bluff trail to Mt. Leconte where she went with Pete, and he would wait for her in the car. She used to race her grandkids around the house and win.
Most importantly, Nyta loved her family and cherished spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Holidays at her home were filled with laughter, joy and lasting memories.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Elmer “Pete” Wall; her son, Paul A. Wall; and her mother, Evelyn Morrow.
She is survived by her son, David R. Wall Sr. and wife, Debbie, of Claxton; grandchildren, Crystal Lawson and husband, Matt, Samantha Wall-Villez and husband, Kris Villez, and David R. Wall Jr. and wife, Amber, all of Knoxville, Amanda Yeager and husband, Jesse, of Claxton, and Jason Wall of Missouri; great-grandchildren, Nolan Painter, Tyler Wall, Katelyn Wall, Jeremiah Wall, Levi Yeager, Norah Villez and David R. Wall III; and great-great-granddaughters, Vayda Painter and Maleigha Wall.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton, with services to follow in the chapel. Burial will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, at Zion Baptist Church in Claxton.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is handling all funeral arrangements.
