Lea and Simmons Funeral Home

04/27/2026

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04/24/2026

Betty Jane Neal

Betty Jane Neal, age 75, a devoted and compassionate woman known for her big heart and love of people, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, in Jackson, TN. Born on September 7, 1950, in Brownsville, TN, Betty lived a life marked by dedication, both to her profession and to her cherished family. Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 2:00 PM, at the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home with Bro. Charles Ferrell Officiating. Burial will follow at the Brownsville Memorial Gardens in Brownsville, TN. Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, at the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

Betty devoted 32 years of her career to Wal-Mart, where she was recognized as a committed and reliable employee. Her work ethic and warm demeanor endeared her to colleagues and customers alike. Beyond her professional life, Betty’s true joy was found in the company of her family, especially her beloved grandchildren, with whom she shared an unwavering bond.

She is survived by her son, Doyle Neal, Jr., (Laura) of Bells, TN; her daughter, Marsha West (Ian) of Three Way, TN; her sisters, Dorothy Moore of Memphis, TN, Carolyn Ellington (Jimmy) of Brownsville, TN and Gail Ferrell (Charles) of Jackson, TN. She also leaves a legacy six grandchildren: Capt. Robert Hunter Wallis (Jolene), Ryan Neal, Shelby Corwin (Tim), Jayden Henderson, Aubrey Hendrix, and Olivia Henderson, as well as five great-grandchildren. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, William Franklin and Mary Watson Davis; her daughter Andrea Henley; her sister, Louise Davis; and her brothers, James Davis and Alvis Davis.

Pallbearers for the service are Ian West, Ryan West, Doyle Neal, Jr., Bobby Neal, Jeffrey Neal and Keith Ferrell.

Betty’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her, yet her memory endures through the love she showed and the lives she touched. Her commitment to family, her community, and her work serves as a testament to a life well-lived. The family requests that memorials be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

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04/21/2026

Lola Beatrice White

Sunrise: July 7, 1955

Sunset: April 13, 2026

Lola Beatrice White was born on July 7, 1955, in Brownsville, TN. She passed away peacefully at her home on April 13, 2026. Throughout her life, she was known for her warm heart and dedication to her family. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 1:00 PM, at the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home with Pastor Walter Evans officiating. Burial will follow at the Brownsville Memorial Gardens in Brownsville, TN. Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM.

Lola worked as a checker for Lasco Fittings / Westlake Pipe & Fittings, where she was respected for her hard work and friendliness. She loved to spend her time watching television, particularly enjoying The Price is Right and programs on the Hallmark Channel. Cooking was one of her pleasures, and she also liked playing games on her phone to keep herself entertained.

Above all, Lola cherished her family deeply. She especially loved her grandchildren, treasuring every moment with them. Her family was very important to her, and she is survived by her sons Jason Brown, Tywand Brown, and Marlon White; her daughters Shirley Johnson, Wanda White, and Tracy White; her brothers Terry Jelks, Ted Jelks, and Jerry Jelks; and her sister Mary Stewart. She was blessed with 13 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. Lola was preceded in death by her parents, James Edward and Clara Belle Halliburton Jelks.

Pallbearers for the service are Eric White, Michael Johnson, Brandon Jelks, Cory Jelks, Phillip Warren and Derrick White.

Lola Beatrice White will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and sister who found joy in simple things and held her family close throughout her life. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

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04/20/2026

Randy Lee Williams

Randy Lee Williams, born on September 29, 1994, in Gallatin, TN, passed away on April 17, 2026, at Methodist University Hospital in Memphis, TN. He was one of a kind and will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. There will be a Memorial Visitation from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM with a Memorial Service to follow at 4:00 PM on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Shaw's Chapel Baptist Church in Brownsville, TN, with Bro. Terry Logan leading the service. There will be a time of fellowship following the service.

Randy worked in the plumbing industry with Roto Rooter, where he dedicated himself to his work. Outside of his career, he loved spending time with his family and enjoyed family gatherings. His hobbies included fishing, camping, and his favorite pastime was simply riding around, appreciating the world around him.

He is survived by his parents, Randy Dewayne and Cindy Gail Richardson Williams of Moscow, TN. Randy also leaves behind his brothers Robert Pilkington (Jodi) of Millington, TN, David Williams (Heather) of Brownsville, TN, and Bryan Williams of Moscow, TN. He is also survived by his sister, Christie Williams of Moscow, TN. Randy’s family was further blessed with three nieces: Carley Sterling, Maci Sterling, and Sophie Pilkington, as well as three nephews: Weston Williams, Lucas Pilkington, and Logon Pilkington.

Randy will be deeply missed by his family and friends who cherished his loving spirit and one-of-a-kind personality. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. All arrangements are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

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04/20/2026

Frank L. Hartmann

Frank L. Hartmann, born on November 27, 1957, in Somerville, TN, passed away on April 9, 2026, at St. Francis Hospital in Bartlett, TN. He was 68 years old. Memorial Services will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM, at the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home with guest speaker, Bro. David Reeves. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, at the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

Frank served two years in the Navy following high school. He later became an electrician and worked for Matt Johnson Electric until he retired in 2025. During those years, and after his retirement, he worked alongside his wife Gail in their secondhand store for thirteen years. Frank loved fishing and spent many peaceful hours enjoying nature. He also enjoyed going to auctions and yard sales, a hobby he called "junkin’." He had a talent for finding antiques and was very good at appraising antique glass. These interests brought him great joy throughout his life.

Above all else, Frank loved his family deeply. He is survived by his wife, Gail Hartmann of Oakland, TN; two sons, Thomas Whittemore and his wife Linda, of Senatobia, MS and Jacob Chan of Oakland, TN; two daughters Jessica Hartmann of Somerville, TN and Wanna Chan of Memphis, TN; he also leaves a legacy of six grandchildren, Christian Suarez, Isabel Suarez, Valeria Suarez, Milena Escobar, Sydney Elwaked, and Alyssa Whittemore. Frank was a "Pop Pop" to all of his nieces and nephews. His heart was so big that he loved everyone as if they were his own.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, John Timmons and Evelyn Ardena Thomas Hartmann and two brothers, James Robert Porter, Jr. and Jerry Lynn Porter.

Frank will be fondly remembered for his love he had for his family and the simple pleasures he cherished. He will be missed by those who knew and loved him. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

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04/19/2026

What are your favorite memories that happened in these unforgettable locations?

04/17/2026

Terry Hayes

TP (Terry) Hayes, age 80, passed away on Monday, April 13, 2026, at the Jackson Madison County General Hospital in Jackson, TN. The family honored his wishes for cremation and there are no services scheduled at this time.

Terry is survived by his nephew, Ricky Joe Hayes of Whiteville, TN and his niece, Norma Lee of Medon, TN. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sammye and Eva Estelle Bennard Hayes, his wife, Nancy Hayes, and his brother Sammy Joe Hayes. All arrangements are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

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04/15/2026

Ray Waldon

Ray Waldon, age 80, a devoted family man, faithful servant, and respected member of his community, passed away peacefully at his home on April 13, 2026. Born on December 17, 1945, in Brownfield, MS, Ray's life was a testament to his strong faith, humility, and dedication to those around him. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 3:00 PM, at the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home with Bro. Shay Lovelace and Dr. John Hayes officiating. Burial will follow at the Brownsville Memorial Gardens in Brownsville, TN. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM at the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

A proud veteran, Ray honorably served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, demonstrating courage and commitment to his country. Following his military service, he pursued a career as a truck driver for Teknor Apex, where he was known for his reliability and hard work.

Ray’s deep spirituality was evident throughout his life. He served as a Sunday School Teacher and Deacon at Shaw's Chapel Baptist Church, where he was beloved by many for his gentle nature and steadfast devotion to God. Known as a good, Godly, and humble man, Ray loved to read his Bible, finding strength and comfort in its teachings.

Outside his faith and career, Ray found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid gardener, cultivating his garden with the same care and patience he applied in all aspects of his life. Ray also enjoyed following baseball, proudly supporting the St. Louis Cardinals, sharing this passion with family and friends.

Ray’s legacy is carried on by his loving wife, Nita Waldon of Brownsville, TN. He is survived by his sons Chris Osteen and his wife Hannah, and Chuck Milton and his wife Pat, all of Brownsville, TN, as well as his daughter Dee Barrett of Horn Lake, MS. He was a cherished brother to Carol Akins of Ripley, MS; Cathy Benavides and her husband Roland of San Antonio, TX; and Sue Settle and her husband Raymond of Blue Mountain, MS. Ray delighted in his role as a grandfather to seven grandchildren, a great-grandfather to three, and a great-great-grandfather to one, as well as being an uncle to several nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents Johnny and Ethel Pannell Waldon, his first wife Sharon Roper Waldon, his son Daniel Waldon, his daughter Diane Waldon, his brothers Durrell Waldon and Robert Waldon and his brother-in-law Terry Akins.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Chuck Milton, Chris Osteen, Raymond Settle, Roland Benavides, Roy Kellum and the Shaw's Chapel Men's Sunday School Class.

Ray Waldon's life was marked by steadfast faith, humble service, and heartfelt love for his family and community. He touched many lives with his kindness and grace, leaving a lasting impression that will be remembered for generations to come. The family requests memorials be made to Shaw's Chapel Baptist Church, c/o Harold Hendrix, Jr., 1179 Sugar Creek Rd., Brownsville, TN 38012 or to the charity of the donor's choice. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

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04/15/2026

Joseph A. Howse, Jr.

Joseph A. Howse, Jr., age 73, a beloved son, brother, and veteran, passed away on April 10, 2026. Born on September 30, 1952, in Haywood County, TN, Joseph lived a life marked by dedication, kindness, and a deep love for his family and country. He will be remembered as a kind and loving individual who cherished spending time with his sister and was greatly loved by friends and family alike. Graveside Services will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11:00 AM, at the Brownsville Memorial Gardens with Bro. J.P. Barden officiating. Burial will follow the service.

Joseph was proud to have served his country with honor. He dedicated over twenty years to the United States Army and the Army National Guard. His devotion to the military was a defining aspect of his life; he had a profound passion for all things related to the Army and National Guard, evidenced by his extensive collection of memorabilia portraying the Army. Following his military career, Joseph worked at the Federal Prison in Memphis, TN, where he continued to exemplify a strong work ethic and commitment to serving others.

Outside of his professional life, Joseph enjoyed the outdoors and took great pleasure in working on cars. He especially took pride in his red truck, a source of much joy and personal accomplishment. Additionally, he had a passion for fi****ms and enjoyed collecting tools and knives.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph A. Howse, Sr. and Freida M. Cornatzor Howse, as well as his grandparents Earl and Eunice Cornatzor and Arthur and Elizabeth Howse. He is survived by his four sisters, Elizabeth Marie Howse, Mary Ann Hayes, Brenda N. Fibelkorn, and Gloria J. Howse. His also leaves nieces and nephews—David Joseph Dean, Laura Dean, Mary Beth Dean, Amanda Fibelkorn, and Jarrod Fibelkorn.

Joseph will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His kindness, dedication, and love will forever remain a part of the lives of his family and friends. His legacy as a devoted serviceman, a skilled craftsman, and a loving family member will endure, reminding all of the meaningful impact one life can have. May he rest in peace. The family requests memorials be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 or to the charity of the donor's choice. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

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04/15/2026

Patricia Ann McCarver Hendren

Patricia Ann McCarver Hendren, age 77, born on July 22, 1948, in Brownsville, TN, passed away on April 13, 2026, at the Haywood County Community Hospital. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 3:00 PM, at the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home with Bro. Ken Culver officiating. Burial will follow at the Brownsville Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, at the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

Patricia devoted a significant part of her career to her role as a purchasing agent, first with Kleer Vu and later with Teknor Apex in her beloved hometown of Brownsville, TN. Her work reflected her meticulous nature and commitment to excellence, characteristics that extended well beyond her professional life.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Patricia remember her as a woman of deep faith who loved her Lord dearly. Her steadfast spirituality was a cornerstone of her life, providing strength and guidance throughout her years. She was known for her great sense of humor, often enlivening any room with her quick wit and warm laughter. Patricia’s love for her family was fierce and unwavering, matched only by the loyalty she showed to her friends. She was also a devoted animal lover, cherishing the companionship of her pets. In her leisure moments, Patricia enjoyed working on jigsaw puzzles and engaging in activities that challenged her mind, reflecting a sharp intellect and a love for problem-solving.

She is survived by her son, Brandon McCarver and his wife Angie, of Piketon, OH; her brothers, Daniel Franklin McCarver and his wife Mary Nell, of Munford, TN, and Mike McCarver of Brownsville, TN; her sisters, Debbie McCommon of Wi******er, TN, and Cynthia Elise McCarver of Jackson, TN; along with several nieces and nephews. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Virginia Dare Warren McCarver; sister-in-law Michelle McCarver; brother-in-law Tommy McCommon; and her cherished best friend, Carolyn Duvall.

Patricia’s family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the city EMS for their extraordinary efforts and compassionate care during her time of need.

Serving as pallbearers will be Sam McCarver and Brandon McCarver.

Patricia will be remembered as a woman who lived with kindness, faith, and an enduring love that will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. The family requests that memorials be made to nerdhq.org in her memory. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

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04/14/2026

Mary Jo Raines

Mary Jo Raines, age 73, born on December 7, 1952, in Memphis, TN, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026, at the home of her goddaughter. She was a beloved member of her family and community, remembered for her kindness, dedication, and loving spirit.

Mary Jo worked as a sales representative for Kraft until her retirement. Even after retiring, she remained active by working part-time at Christ the King Lutheran Church. She was deeply involved in the church, especially in the pre-school department, where she found joy in serving others. Her faith and commitment to the church were important parts of her life.

She loved to read and had a special affection for her labradors, particularly her dog Harley, who brought her much happiness. Mary Jo cherished spending time with her Bunco Girls Group, enjoying the companionship and fun they shared.

Mary Jo is survived by her daughter, Rachel Barnett (Jason), of Memphis, TN; her brother Joe L. R**e, Jr. (Pattie), their son Joe Lee R**e, III (Jennifer), and their children Chase, Culver, and Camdyn; another brother, Hugh R**e, (Tracy), along with their children Savanna and Hudson, who will remember her fondly. Her goddaughter Reese Ferrell and Reese’s husband Tommy provided comfort in her final days. She also leaves one grandchild, Murphy Barnett. She was blessed with the companionship of her dog, Harley. Mary Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Joe L. R**e, Sr. and Edna Mae Rossbach R**e.

Her family and friends will miss her dearly. Mary Jo’s warmth and generosity touched many lives, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. There are no services scheduled at this time but will be announced as they become available by the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

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04/14/2026

Patrick Henry Mann, Jr.

A generous heart left for eternity when Patrick Henry Mann, Jr., 90, lifelong resident of Haywood County, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, in the presence of his loving wife, Ann.

Known also as Pat by his many friends, Patrick was born on February 25, 1936. He graduated from Haywood High School in 1954. He loved to recount his time as captain of the football team and remained close to his former classmates throughout the years.

Patrick received his bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University and graduated from Vanderbilt Law School in 1960. He returned to Brownsville to practice law in the office with Judge John Gray. One of Patrick’s favorite stories was when Judge Gray found out he was going to vote Republican in the next election. Judge Gray said, “If you vote Republican, you’ll never amount to anything in this town.” Patrick practiced law in Brownsville from 1961 to 2023 and followed his own political path.

Patrick married Ann Elizabeth Rule December 29, 1958. He liked to call her “Miss Ann.” Devoted to their children and each other, they reared four children, all of whom graduated from Haywood County public schools. Patrick was very interested in their education but even more interested in their becoming honest, hard-working individuals.

Humorist Will Rogers had a profound influence on Patrick’s investment strategy: “Buy land. They ain’t making any more of the stuff.” He enjoyed buying farmland and was intensely interested in the crops and those who grew them. His favorite pastime was driving his truck, his golden retrievers aboard, to check his fields. He regarded the land not only as an investment but as a resource to protect.

Patrick’s love of the outdoors included building bluebird houses and feeding hummingbirds. He enjoyed hunting with his birddogs and fishing adventures on several continents. He and Ann rode their bikes and hiked on trips in Europe and around home. He liked to ride his bike on his birthday…a mile for each year of his life.

National parks, big cities, museums, and backroads were all of interest to the traveling Manns. They loved to discover new countries and cultures over six continents. But no matter where they went, Patrick was always eager to get back home.

The measure of a life, Patrick believed, was not in accomplishments but in relationships. He often talked about his appreciation for his mentor in his youth, Mr. Phil Williams. Patrick likewise offered himself as adviser and counselor to young men—whether a young farmer, a lawyer, or a fellow hunter or fisherman.

Brownsville benefitted from his interest in his community and his generosity. He is responsible for creating the BAMP (Brownsville Amphitheater) as well as refurbishing the memorial flame on the courthouse lawn. He commissioned murals to be painted on buildings around Courthouse Square and installed the clock at Tamm Park. He loved Haywood County history and was a generous donor to Haywood Heritage projects. One of his favorites was moving and restoring the one-room schoolhouse legendary singer Tina Turner attended into a curated collection of her mementos at Brownsville’s Welcome Center near Exit 56.

The second row at First United Methodist Church will be strangely vacant. Over the years Patrick served the church in almost every capacity and left a legacy in the gymnasium he donated to serve its youth.

So many boards, service and charitable organizations benefited from his participation. An avid supporter of the Jackson Symphony, Patrick served on its board. He also served on the board of Lambuth College and the Haywood County School Board.

Patrick Mann was preceded in death by his parents Patrick Henry Mann Sr. and Dorothy Mohon Mann. He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Ann Rule Mann, and four children: Tanner Mann (Lisa), John Mann (Laura), Elizabeth Mann, and David Mann (Beth.) His proud legacy is his grandchildren: John-Michael Mann (Kaitlynn), Lauren Ellington (Ford), Aiden Riseling (Jordyn), Brenna Riseling, Logan Mann, Leah Mann, Elizabeth Mann, Kate Mann, and four great-grandchildren. Patrick is survived by his brother, Bradford Dayton Mann Sr (Linda), many cousins and beloved friends.

Funeral services will take place at First United Methodist Church in Brownsville, Tennessee, on Saturday, April 18. There will be a visitation beginning at 9:15 a.m., with the service to follow at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First United Methodist Church, the Jackson Symphony or the charity of choice. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.

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