Karon Joan Burnette
July 16, 2026
Karon Joan Burnette, 77, of Heiskell passed away Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the University of Tennessee Medical Center. She was born Aug. 13, 1948, in Heiskell to Aaron Edward and Maud Ema Lee Hackney.
Karon was a devoted Christian and faithful member of Wolf Valley Baptist Church in Heiskell. Her faith was an important part of her life and was reflected in the love, kindness and compassion she showed to her family and others. Her family was at the heart of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with those she loved.
Karon enjoyed sewing and making beautiful quilts. She especially loved Christmas, and took great joy in wrapping presents for her family. Each gift was carefully and beautifully wrapped and completed with one of her handcrafted bows. This special tradition, along with the love she placed into every detail, will always be fondly remembered by her family.
As Karon’s health declined, her sister, Joyce Snyder, lovingly cared for her for many years. Joyce’s children, Judy and Jack, also helped provide Karon with care and love. Their devotion and kindness meant so much to Karon and her family.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William “Harry” Burnette; son, Christopher Burnette; father-in-law and mother-in-law, John and Lula Burnette; sisters, Wanda Garner and husband James, and Loretta Dew and husband Boots; brothers, Bobby, Tommy, Hugh and Buck Hackney; sister-in-law, Minnie Hackney; and brothers-in-law, Eddie Bills, Bill Snyder and Roger Giles.
She is survived by her sisters Katherine Bills, Joyce Snyder and Debria Giles; brother-in-law, Larry “Spanky” Burnette; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. Karon also held a special place in the lives of John Paul and Thomas Anthony Waggoner, who lovingly considered her their mamaw.
The family received friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home. Friends may also call from 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Wolf Valley Baptist Church.
The funeral will follow, with the Rev. Toby Geren officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Wolf Valley Baptist Church Cemetery.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is honored to serve the family of Karon Joan Burnette.
hollygamble.com
Richard Eugene Vaughn
July 13, 2026
Richard Eugene Vaughn, known affectionately as Dick or Pete, 76, passed away peacefully July 13, 2026, at his home in Clinton.
He was born June 14, 1950, in Martin, Kentucky, to Peggy Jo Allen Vaughn and Maurice Lee Vaughn. He was a graduate of Oak Ridge High School and received a bachelor of science degree from Tennessee Tech and a master’s degree from the University of Tennessee. He was a proud member of IBEW Local 270.
Richard was a nature lover at heart and could be found fishing, hunting or out on the golf course on any given day. He was a Kentucky fan for life and always cheered on his beloved Wildcats, even though he lived in Vol country for most of his life.
He shared a lifelong close bond with his siblings, twin brother Bob and older sister Margaret Ann, and had the great joy of spending almost 60 years with the love of his life, his wife, Karen.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Peggy Jo and Maurice Lee Vaughn; and niece, Morgan Nichols.
He is survived by his wife, Karen Nichols Vaughn; daughters, Megan Vaughn Haniford (Lee), Brittany Vaughn and Katie Vaughn; brother, Robert “Bob” Vaughn; sister, Margaret Ann Vaughn Kesterson (Ron); brothers-in-law, Charles Nichols and David Nichols (Lyn); granddaughters, Harper and Hayley Haniford; nieces, Kelly Vaughn (Charissa), Kari Vaughn Newport (John Paul), Meredith Nichols Woods and Laura Nichols Barr (Shannon); nephews, Joe, Jake and Josh Kesterson; and many beloved great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.
A celebration of life was held from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, July 26, in the banquet hall at Calhoun’s Oak Ridge. All were welcome to visit and share memories.
Online condolences may be shared with the family through Weatherford Mortuary at https://www.weatherfordmortuary.com/obituaries/obituary-listings..
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Blood Cancer United. https://donate.lls.org/ltn/donate
Harold J.L. England
July 5, 2026
Mr. Harold J.L. England, 85, of Flowery Branch, Georgia, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on his 85th birthday, Sunday, July 5, 2026.
Harold was born July 5, 1941, in Clinton to Hollis and Elsie England. He was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine Mae England; his parents; and his sister, Zella Adams.
A devoted Christian, Harold was a longtime member of Blackshear Place First Baptist Church in Oakwood, Georgia. His faith guided his life and was reflected in the kindness, humility and love he showed to everyone who knew him.
Harold enjoyed a successful career with Minolta Business Systems in Atlanta, where he worked for many years before retiring. Retirement opened the door to one of life’s greatest pleasures — traveling with his beloved wife, Jerri, and creating treasured memories with family and friends.
Although he enjoyed traveling, Harold’s greatest joy was always his family. Nothing brought him greater happiness than supporting his children, grandchildren and great-grandchild. Whether attending baseball games, tennis matches, volleyball tournaments, graduations, honor ceremonies or other milestones, Harold was faithfully present, offering encouragement, love and pride. His family was the center of his life, and the legacy of his unwavering love and devotion will remain with them forever.
While his family deeply mourns his passing, they find peace and comfort in God’s promise that one day they will all be reunited in heaven.
He is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, Mike and Amber England of Watkinsville, Georgia, and David and Brooke England of Flowery Branch; grandchildren, Jordan (Seth) Goodroe, Emma England, Wyatt England, Bryce England, Ethan England and Ella Grace England; and his treasured great-grandson, Charlie Goodroe.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 12, 2026, in the chapel of Memorial Park South Funeral Home with the Rev. Dave Channell officiating. Interment followed at Memorial Park South Cemetery. The family received friends from 1 to 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 12 at the funeral home.
“Well done, good and faithful servant ... Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23.
Memorial Park South Funeral Home of Flowery Branch, Georgia, was in charge of arrangements.
memorialparkfuneralhomes.com
Harold England
July 5, 2026
Mr. Harold J.L. England, age 85, of Flowery Branch, Georgia, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on his 85th birthday, Sunday, July 5, 2026.
Harold was born on July 5, 1941, in Clinton, Tennessee, to the late Hollis England and Elsie England. He was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine Mae England, parents and his beloved sister, Zella Adams.
A devoted Christian, Harold was a longtime member of Blackshear Place First Baptist Church in Oakwood, Georgia. His faith guided his life and was reflected in the kindness, humility, and love he showed to everyone who knew him.
Harold enjoyed a successful career with Minolta Business Systems in Atlanta, where he worked for many years before retiring. Retirement opened the door to one of life's greatest pleasures—traveling with his beloved wife, Jerri, and creating treasured memories with family and friends.
Although he enjoyed traveling, Harold's greatest joy was always his family. Nothing brought him greater happiness than supporting his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. Whether attending baseball games, tennis matches, volleyball tournaments, graduations, honor ceremonies, or other milestones, Harold was faithfully present, offering encouragement, love, and pride. His family was the center of his life, and the legacy of his unwavering love and devotion will remain with them forever.
While his family deeply mourns his passing, they find peace and comfort in God's promise that one day they will all be reunited in Heaven.
Harold is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Amber England of Watkinsville; his son and daughter-in-law, David and Brooke England of Flowery Branch; his cherished grandchildren, Jordan (Seth) Goodroe, Emma England, Wyatt England, Bryce England, Ethan England, and Ella Grace England; and his treasured great-grandson, Charlie Goodroe.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, July 12, 2026 in the Chapel of Memorial Park South Funeral Home with interment following at Memorial Park South Cemetery. Rev. Dave Channell will officiate. The family will receive friends 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., Sunday, July 12, 2026 at the funeral home.
"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23
Memorial Park South Funeral Home, 4121 Falcon Parkway, Flowery Branch, Georgia 30542 is in charge of arrangements. Send on-line condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.
Dolores Goins
July 3, 2026
Dolores Goins, 89, of Powell passed away peacefully on July 3, 2026.
She is survived by her daughters, Debra Harmon (Ed), Brenda Cook (Frank) and Linda Taras (Ken); son, Donald Goins (Kathy); special nephew, Mike Goins (Mary); sisters, Donna Goins and Jean Bullock; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Jones Mortuary is honored to serve the Goins family.
Lucille Elliott
July 2, 2026
Lucille Elliott, 63, of Clinton passed away peacefully Thursday, July 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Born Nov. 23, 1962, Lucille spent her life cultivating a warm and welcoming home for those she loved. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and aunt whose family was her greatest joy.
Her gentle spirit, kindness and deep love for her family will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Azalee Roberts; and sister, Darlene Ridenour.
She is survived by her husband of 34 years, Jerry Elliott; daughters, Cindy Martin and husband Troy, Angie Sams and husband Danny, and Hannah Elliott and fiancé Robert; son, Keenan Roberts and wife Heather; nine cherished grandchildren; brothers, Jim Roberts and wife Pat, Larry Roberts and wife Pauline, and Lee Roberts and wife LulaMae; sister, Pauline Marlow and husband Eddie; and a host of loving nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made directly to Holley-Gamble Funeral Home to assist the family with funeral expenses.
The family received friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, July 10, 2026, in the chapel of Holley-Gamble Funeral Home.
A graveside service was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 11, 2026, at King Cemetery.
Karen Thorpe
July 2, 2026
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Karen Thorpe, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, who passed away July 2, 2026, at the age of 80.
Born Dec. 7, 1945, in the close-knit community of Lake City, Tennessee, Karen’s life was a vibrant tapestry woven with love, laughter and an unwavering zest for life.
Karen was a woman of remarkable spirit and warmth, known to many as the life of the party. Her presence could brighten any room, and her outgoing nature drew people to her effortlessly. She possessed a unique ability to make everyone feel seen and valued, a quality that endeared her to all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.
Her professional life was spent as a dedicated hostess at Shoney’s restaurant, where she greeted each guest with her signature smile and heartfelt hospitality. Her work was more than just a job; it was an extension of her generous spirit and provided her with the opportunity to touch the lives of countless individuals who, in turn, were touched by her kindness.
Outside of work, Karen’s passions were as diverse as they were profound. She had an adventurous spirit and loved to travel, always eager to explore new places and meet new people. A true enthusiast of the open road, she had a fondness for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, finding freedom and joy with the wind on her face.
Music and dancing brought her immense joy, and she was an ardent fan of the timeless music of Elvis Presley and the soulful melodies of Dolly Parton. Her love for these artists reflected her own dynamic and joyful personality.
Above all, Karen cherished her family with unparalleled devotion. Her children and extended family were the center of her universe, and she gave of herself generously, nurturing her loved ones with unwavering support and encouragement. Her legacy of love and laughter is carried forward by those she leaves behind, a testament to the profound impact she had on all who knew her.
Karen was deeply loved by everyone in her family, a testament to a life spent giving and loving unconditionally. Her legacy is one of compassion, joy and an indomitable spirit that will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Nora Stooksbury; husband, Ishmeal Thorpe Jr.; and sister, Sue Hoover.
She is survived by her children, Sonya Thorpe, Kimberly Smerglia (Richard) and Guy Thorpe (Stephanie); grandchildren, Kayla Thorpe, Brandon Smerglia and Kaden Thorpe (Olivia); brother, Ricky Stooksbury; sisters, Gail Meredith and Tammy Martin; and her “adopted daughter,” Rose Malpass.
Visitation was held Sunday, July 5, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home. The funeral service followed in the funeral home chapel. She was laid to rest Monday, July 6, at Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home is proud to serve the Thorpe family. hollygamble.com
Thomas Andrew “Tom” Larkin
June 29, 2026
Thomas Andrew “Tom” Larkin passed away peacefully at home on June 29, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.
Tom was born Sept. 9, 1946, in New York City. He graduated from Mount Vernon High School in Mount Vernon, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from New York University. Even as a young man, he possessed a curiosity that would define his life — a lifelong drive to learn, build, fix and leave things a little better than he found them. In 1968, Tom was introduced to Carol Ann on a blind date, and they were married Jan. 23, 1971, beginning a partnership that would anchor the rest of his life.
After working for the New York Central Railroad following college, Tom devoted 30 years to federal service in a career that included the Department of Defense, the Department of Transportation and the Department of Energy. His work took the family from Washington, D.C., to Portsmouth, Ohio, and ultimately to Oak Ridge.
Service was at the heart of who Tom was, and it was reflected in everything he did. As a son, husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, he was always quick to lend a hand and generous with his time and talents whenever someone needed him.
He treasured the simple things — Sunday drives, good Chinese food and the quiet satisfaction of a job well done. Over the years, his curiosity led him to woodworking, leatherworking, welding, machining, metallurgy, photography, guitar playing and model airplanes. He took as much joy in sharing what he learned as he did in learning it himself. His love of music ranged from big band and crooners to traditional country and folk. A gentle giant with a ready smile and a kind word for everyone, Tom will be remembered above all for the deep love he had for his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Roberta Larkin.
He is survived by his wife, Carol Ann Larkin; daughter, Amy Sackaroff (Jeff); son, Jonathan Larkin (Carrie Curtis); grandchildren, Bailey Larkin, Evan Sackaroff, Kyle Sackaroff, Owen Larkin and Sheldon Larkin; brother, Brian Larkin; sister, Theresa Bjarnson; brother-in-law, Ed Ottusch; and nieces and nephews, Melanie Hogue, Andrew Larkin, Matthew Larkin, Eddie Ottusch, Mark Ottusch and Michael Bjarnson.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Methodist Medical Center, NHC Healthcare, Covenant Hospice and Tom’s caregivers, Jean, Gina, MaKalia and Maxine, for their kindness and compassion. The family also thanks the staff of Holley-Gamble Funeral Home for their thoughtful care and support in honoring Tom’s memory. Special appreciation is extended to the clergy, staff and parishioners of St. Mary’s Catholic Church for their friendship, prayers and steadfast support over the years, especially during Tom’s final months.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. Those wishing to honor Tom’s memory may also arrange for a Mass to be said in his remembrance.
The family received friends from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 5, 2026, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton. A funeral mass was celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, July 6, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Oak Ridge, with visitation beginning at 9 a.m. A graveside service followed at Oak Ridge Memorial Park.
Online condolences may be left at holleygamble.com.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home was honored to serve the Larkin family.
