Delora Eldridge Sherwood
November 5, 2026
Delora Eldridge Sherwood, 86, passed away peacefully Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, at home, surrounded by the love of her daughter and son-in-law, Pam and Stacy Gray. She fought a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease for many years.
Born July 15, 1940, to Robert and Verda Eldridge, Delora graduated from Clinton High School in 1958 and later earned an associate degree in dietary services from Roane State Community College.
She spent many years working for Anderson County and Clinton City schools before retiring as a cafeteria manager with Oak Ridge Schools.
What began as a hobby decorating cakes blossomed into a career spanning more than 30 years as the owner of her own business, Catering by Delora. She provided cakes and food for weddings, receptions and countless dinners.
Delora and her husband of 63 years, Earl Sherwood, were longtime members of Second Baptist Church in Clinton and the Clinton Lions Club. They were devoted supporters of the Museum of Appalachia’s Homecoming event for many years and loved to travel, visiting much of the United States together.
Delora is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Pam Gray, and her husband, Stacy; and her grandson, Nik, whom she adored spoiling. She often reminded him that “what happens at Mamaw’s, stays at Mamaw’s.”
She is also survived by her sister, Nel Schrader, and her husband, Ron; her special “daughter,” Ingunn Birger, and her husband, Borge, of Norway; and nieces and nephews, Terry Sherwood and his wife, Sabrina, Todd Schrader, Tippi Moore and her husband, Rickey, April Beall and her husband, Russel, and Tina Haman and her husband, Jim.
In addition to her husband, Earl, who passed away in 2024, Delora was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Verda Eldridge; and her brother, Theodore.
The family will receive friends from 2-3:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home, 621 S. Charles Seivers Blvd., Clinton. A service will follow at 3:30 p.m.
The family wishes to extend its heartfelt gratitude to Delora’s special caregiver, Kristy Muncey, who lovingly cared for her for nearly two years. Special thanks also go to the University of Tennessee Hospice team, including Teri McCall, Chaplain Phillip and Nurse Justin, for their compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Delora’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Foundation, the Pat Summitt Foundation, the Humane Society or Second Harvest.
Ronald Salva
November 3, 2026
Ronald Salva, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, after a courageous battle with dementia.
Born Jan. 1, 1968, in Patchogue, New York, Ronald was the cherished son of Gloria and Rafael Salva.
Ronald’s life was a testament to joy and laughter. Known for his infectious sense of humor and love of music, he brought light into the lives of all who knew him. A gifted guitarist, Ronald enjoyed countless hours playing his beloved instrument and singing. He often shared his musical talents during church services, where he found solace and strength.
His love of music was matched only by his love for people. Known to many as the “fun uncle,” Ronald could always be counted on for a good laugh.
Family was the cornerstone of Ronald’s life. He shared 31 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Melissa, who stood by his side with love and support. Together, they raised three children who carry forward his legacy of kindness and humor.
Ronald was a proud grandfather and great- grandfather who treasured his family and the joy they brought to his life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gloria and Rafael Salva; sister, Evelyn Torres; and brother, Charles Salva.
Ronald is survived by his wife of 31 years, Melissa Salva; sons, Andrew McKenzie and wife, Cheyenne, and Aaron McKenzie and wife, Amanda; daughter, Jill and husband, Dustin; grandchildren, Mikel McKenzie, Dakota McKenzie, Ronin McKenzie and Ariana McKenzie, along with other grandchildren who did not have the opportunity to know him; and great-grandson, Drew, whose arrival brought him immense joy.
Ronald’s circle of love extended beyond family to include dear friends, among them Phil Joeckel and wife, Trish, and Tom Krupa and wife, Michelle, along with countless other friends who shared in the laughter and memories that defined his life.
His family and friends will forever cherish the moments spent in his company, where laughter was abundant and love was ever-present.
A celebration of Ronald’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026, at the HighPoint 55+ Golf Community Center, 12249 Club House Road, Brooksville, Florida 34613.
In memory of Ronald’s generous spirit, the family suggests that those wishing to honor his life consider making a donation to a charity of their choice.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Ronald’s hospice team — Crystal, Angelene, Shelly, Janina and Jacob — whose compassionate care ensured his comfort and dignity during his final days.
The family also expresses appreciation to the friends and loved ones who offered their presence and support through visits and video calls, providing comfort and connection during this difficult time.
Ronald Salva’s legacy of love, laughter and music will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who were privileged to know him. His joyful spirit will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.
Lenard “Phillip” Ayers
November 1, 2026
Lenard “Phillip” Ayers, 83, passed away Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, at Parkwest Hospital.
Phillip was a lifelong Laker, having graduated from Lake City High School in 1962. He enjoyed collecting cars and friends, having owned more than 100 vehicles throughout his lifetime. His friends, like his cars, ranged from luxury models to street rods, always looking for the next adventure. Each was treasured by Phillip for their unique qualities.
A NASCAR enthusiast and avid camper, Phillip built relationships with people from all walks of life. Tales of road trips totaling more than 3 million miles while working as a security courier for the Department of Energy, camping trips filled with pranks, and drag racing adventures on and off the track were all part of the many stories that made talking with Phillip such a joy.
He always had time to admire a sporty truck, hang out at Hardee’s on Saturdays with friends John Meredith and Sherill Cook, and walk at Main Street Baptist Church with faithful walkers, including Donnie Bennett. He often confessed they talked a lot and walked a little. The talking was the part he liked best.
In 1969, Phillip was called to serve his country and spent more than a year in Vietnam. Although he received several medals and commendations, he would tell anyone the best part of his service was getting to take leave and spend time with his wife, Ella Jane, in Hawaii. He loved his country, but she was the love of his life. They shared 63 years together.
In addition to his wife, Phillip cherished his niece, Angela “Hoppy” Merryman, whom he regarded as a daughter. He spoiled her by spending much of his time fixing the cars she managed to damage, proving the best uncles are those who help keep your broken car console and dents a secret.
Phillip equipped her husband, Jeff, with a Craftsman toolbox and spent many days passing along the knowledge needed to keep vehicles and campers in top shape.
A true garage genius, Phillip could often be found at Ken’s Parts and Equipment, visiting with Chuck Kesterson and the mechanics. He felt at home anywhere a wrench was turning.
Phillip took pride in passing his love of racing on to his great-nephew, Kolby Merryman, getting him hooked on NASCAR as a toddler. Some family traditions are worth passing on.
Christmas was his favorite holiday, and Phillip was famous for his original Chex Mix recipe, which he called “Do-Dads.” He made sure everyone received a bag of his special snack to celebrate the season.
Phillip is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ella Jane Ayers; niece, Angela “Hoppy” Merryman and her husband, Jeff; great-nephew, Kolby Merryman and his wife, Twana; family members, Faye Parks, Kay Jerrell and Sammy Foust; and many other relatives and friends who cherish his memory as one of the kindest and most generous people they have ever known.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Lorena Ayers; brothers, Bill David Ayers and Leland Ayers; brother-in-law, Lynn Parks; and parents-in-law, Tom and Georgia Parks.
The family received friends from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, at Leach Family Funeral Home in Rocky Top. The funeral followed at 7 p.m., with the Rev. Randy Norton officiating.
Family and friends met at the funeral home at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, to proceed to Leach Cemetery for a 1 p.m. burial.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Parkwest Hospital’s 2 Dogwood and 2 Montvue units for their loving care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Susan Koester
October 30, 2026
Susan Koester, 76, of Powell passed away peacefully Oct. 30, 2026, at Sacred Ground Hospice House.
Born Oct. 30, 1950, to John and Lillian Morris, Susan’s life came full circle as she passed away on her 76th birthday.
Susan was a loving, kindhearted and selfless woman who found her greatest happiness in life’s simplest pleasures. She had a wonderful sense of humor, a quick wit and a personality that could bring laughter to almost any situation. She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind, and those who knew her best loved her for her honesty, strong opinions and the genuine heart behind them.
An avid Tennessee Vols fan, Susan loved cheering on her favorite teams, especially football and basketball. She also enjoyed getting lost in a good book, spending time at the beach and relaxing on her porch, where she was perfectly content enjoying the little things in life.
Above all else, Susan treasured her family, especially her grandchildren, who were her pride and joy. Nothing brought her greater happiness than spending time with them, and the love she had for each of them was immeasurable.
Susan had a special way of touching the lives of those around her. Always giving of herself and putting others before her own needs, she held a special place in the hearts of many. The love and admiration others had for her ran so deep that her sister named her daughter after her, a reflection of just how much she meant to those fortunate enough to know her.
Susan never needed grand things to find happiness. For her, it was found in family, laughter, a beautiful day at the beach, a Tennessee victory or a quiet afternoon on the porch. Though she will be deeply missed, her humor, kindness, unwavering love and the countless memories she created will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
In addition to her parents, Susan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Louis William Koester; brothers, Johnny and Frank Morris; sister, Cissy Morris; brother-in-law, Shorty McClure; and great-grandson, Jason Timothy Koester.
She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Koester and husband, Charles Bonner; sons, David Koester, and John Koester and wife, Mary; brother, Wayne Morris and wife, Alba; sisters, Teresa Weaver and husband, Junior, Diana McClure, and Kathleen Cantrell and husband, Mike; sister-in-law, Gilda Morris; grandchildren, Ben Koester and wife, Bailee, Katherine Koester, and Emma Noland; great-grandchild, Levi Koester; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
The family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton. The funeral will follow at 6 p.m. in the funeral home chapel, with Dr. Danny Chisholm officiating.
Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at Grandview Memorial Garden.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is honored to serve the Koester family.
holleygamble.com
Johnnie Catlett Ellison
October 26, 2026
Johnnie Catlett Ellison, formerly of the Claxton community and most recently a resident of Clinton, passed away Oct. 26, 2026.
She was a member of Zion Baptist Church and a retired secretary with Modern Woodmen of America’s Knoxville office.
Johnnie was a life member of VFW Auxiliary Post 1733 in Knoxville, where she served as president from 1981 to 1982. She was also a charter member of Moose Family Fraternity Chapter 1695 in Knoxville and a member of AARP Chapter 2461 in Clinton.
She was preceded in death by her husband, J.O. Milford “Jome” Ellison Sr.; daughter, Kathy M. Ellison; grandson, Jome Shane Ellison; parents, W.E. and Nancy Catlett; sister, Dorothy Rutherford, and her husband, Larry; and brother, Gordon Catlett.
Johnnie is survived by her daughter, Teresa Ellison York; son, J.O. Milford “Joe” Ellison Jr. and his wife, Mary; granddaughter, Kristal York Oliver and her husband, Patrick; grandson, Brian York and his wife, Sarah; great-grandchildren, Alaina Ellison Hargroves, Paisley Oliver and Layton Oliver; and several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, at Sherwood Memorial Gardens in Alcoa.
Holley Gamble Funeral Home is proud to serve the Ellison family.
holleygamble.com
Betty Jo Harris Wayland
October 23, 2026
Betty Jo Harris Wayland, born July 20, 1944, passed away peacefully Oct. 23, 2026, surrounded by family and friends.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, laughter and countless lives made better simply because she was part of them.
A graduate of Lone Jack High School in Pineville, Kentucky, Betty also attended Berea College in Kentucky. She dedicated 32 years of service to Norris Middle School, retiring in 2008.
While her official title was school secretary, that title could never fully capture the role she played in the lives of the students, families and staff who came through the school’s doors. To generations of children throughout Anderson County, she was affectionately known as “Mama Wayland” or “Betts” — a trusted confidante, a source of comfort and a surrogate mother to so many.
Betty was warm, nurturing and generous with her love, but she also believed in respect, accountability and doing what was right. She had a way of making people feel cared for while making it perfectly clear that foolishness would not be tolerated. Her advice was second to none, and those fortunate enough to know her trusted her wisdom, honesty and unwavering good judgment.
She was also a master of grace under pressure. No matter how chaotic the day became, Betty could be counted on to meet it with composure, kindness and her unmistakable sense of humor.
Even if the school were on fire and an angry parent were standing at the counter, she could still answer the telephone with her signature greeting: “We’re having a great day at Norris Middle School. How can I help you?”
That was Betty — steady, gracious and determined to meet every person with kindness, no matter the circumstances.
Her love for the children she cared for extended far beyond the school office. There was rarely a choir or band concert, theater production, football game or other event that Betty missed. She showed up, cheered loudly and made sure the people she loved knew someone was in their corner. Her presence was a reminder that being there for someone is one of the most meaningful ways to show love.
A longtime member of First Baptist Church in Andersonville, Betty cherished her faith and church community. She was also a devoted member of Clinch Valley Chapter No. 369 of the Order of the Eastern Star, where she served multiple terms as worthy matron.
Perhaps Betty’s greatest gift was her ability to make people feel welcome, valued and loved. Her genuine smile could put others at ease, and she was known for giving what many would call the best hug in the county.
She treated everyone with dignity and respect, never looking down on another person or making anyone feel less worthy. She saw people as equals and welcomed them without judgment. Whether she had known someone for decades or had just met them, she had a remarkable way of making them feel as though they belonged.
Betty’s influence cannot be measured in years of service or titles held. It lives on in the former students, the people who carry her advice with them, the families who felt welcomed by her and the countless individuals who were reminded through her kindness that they mattered.
The world was a little warmer, a little kinder and a lot more welcoming because Betty Wayland was in it.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, William Frazier Wayland; parents, Joe Carson Harris and Rose Garland; brother, Ray Harris; and sister, Sissy Chadwell.
She is survived by her daughter, Lori Wayland; sister, Shirley Crigger; great-niece, Angel Bush; daughter by heart, Melissa Wayland; granddaughter by heart, Bailee Wayland; great-grandson by heart, Jameson Wayland; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.
Betty will be deeply missed by her family, friends and the many generations of children who were fortunate enough to know her as “Mama Wayland.” Her legacy is one of unconditional kindness, quiet strength, unwavering grace and a love that made room for everyone.
She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a community forever changed by her presence and countless people who will carry her love with them for the rest of their lives.
The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home. An Order of the Eastern Star funeral ceremony will begin at 7 p.m., followed by a traditional funeral officiated by the Rev. David Seiber.
Betty will be laid to rest beside her husband at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home is proud to serve the Wayland family.
holleygamble.com
David Allen Sexton
October 20, 2026
David Allen Sexton, lovingly known as “Doc,” lived his life on his own terms and to the fullest.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Junior and Susie; sisters, Bernadine and Rachel; and nieces, Rachel Kay and Sabrina.
David leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory. Siblings, Anthony Sexton, Jerry Sexton (Deborah), Judy Sexton, Betty Phillips (Cline), Elizabeth Sexton and Marshall Kidd, Joe Sexton (Lance), and Valerie Sexton; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and many other beloved family members and friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.
David was a professional brick mason who took great pride in his work. He found joy in playing his guitar and singing the songs he wrote. He loved the outdoors and spending time in the woods, where he could enjoy the peace and freedom that nature brought him.
David had a special gift for making people feel welcome. He never met a stranger, and his loving, kindhearted nature made it easy for people to connect with him. He was a natural jokester who could find humor in almost anything, bringing laughter and lightheartedness to those around him.
His personality, stories, music and unmistakable spirit made him one of a kind. To honor David’s memory, take time to enjoy the things you love, just as he did. David will be deeply missed, forever loved and never forgotten.
The family received friends from 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, at Leach Family Funeral Home and Cremation. A funeral followed at 7 p.m.
leachfamilyfuneralhome.com
Tommy Edwin Moles
October 16, 2026
Tommy Edwin Moles, 88, of Andersonville passed away peacefully Oct. 16, 2026. He was a longtime member of Lone Mountain Baptist Church.
Tommy proudly served his country in both the U.S. Air Force and the Navy Reserve. He served four years in the Air Force as an airman first class, working as a mechanic in Reno, Nevada, and Okinawa, Japan. He later joined the Navy Reserve, where he served for more than 20 years as a member of the Seabees Naval Construction Battalion. His service included being called to active duty in Saudi Arabia during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
In addition to his military service, Tommy worked as a butcher for East Tennessee Packing House and as a sheet-metal worker. He spent most of his civilian career at Y-12 in Oak Ridge, where he eventually retired.
Tommy was a devoted family man and a proud patriot who deeply loved his family and his country. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh. Intelligent and wise, he was always reading about and observing the world around him. He knew something about just about everything — and he was never short on opinions! His heart, however, was even bigger than his opinions, and he was generous to those he loved.
Tommy enjoyed family gatherings, shooting and working at the sawmill with his boys, collecting antiques, visiting with friends, spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and watching the sunset from the glider in his front yard. Above all, Tommy leaves behind a lasting testimony of faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Ollie Moles; sisters, Betty Reagan, Thelma Hickman, Lois Phillips and Carrie Humphrey; and son, Adam Moles.
He is survived by his wife, Gayle Moles; sister, Marie Cole; brother, Ralph Moles (Nellie); sons, Tommy Moles (Traci), Eddie Moles (Robin), Jason Moles (Stephanie), Matt Moles (Lisa) and Josh Moles (Jade); grandchildren, JR Moles, Brittany Moles, Whittany Youtsey, Caleb Jacks, Josh Moles, Mikayla Moles, Jordan Phillips, Sadie Moles and Jesse Clowers; six precious great-grandchildren; and many other family members and friends.
The family would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at Ben Atchley Veterans’ Home and the UT Hospice nursing team for the compassionate care they provided to Tommy and his family. The family is especially grateful to Christina of Ben Atchley Veterans’ Home and Katrina of UT Hospice, who consistently went above and beyond in providing care and support. May God bless each of you tenfold for your kindness.
The family will receive friends from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, at Emory Valley Baptist Church. The funeral will follow, with the Rev. Doug Fielden and Matt Moles officiating.
A graveside service will be held at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery on John Sevier Highway. Family and friends are welcome to attend.
