Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist-Valley View Chapel

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Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist-Valley View Chapel

Chattanooga Funeral Home believes that each funeral should be as unique and memorable as the life being honored.

Our experienced and knowledgeable staff works with families of all faiths and cultures to create tributes that reflect the special qualities of the person being honored, and our understanding of the grieving process enables us to assist families with empathy and compassion. Funeral and memorial services have evolved to include a variety of options for honoring and celebrating lives. Chattanooga Funeral Home can help customize services that are as elaborate or simple as you desire, from catered events to quiet observances with family and close friends. Our mission is to ease the burden of the families we serve by guiding them through the funeral process and ensuring their complete satisfaction. Chattanooga Funeral Home is a full-service provider, offering a broad selection of flowers, caskets, urns, register books, acknowledgement notes and other products to help you create a memorable and thoughtful ceremony and farewell. Our services are 100 percent guaranteed for your satisfaction. Since 1933, the caring staff of Chattanooga Funeral Home has provided funeral services to families in Chattanooga and the surrounding area. Today, we are proud to be a member of the Dignity Memorial® network of more than 1,800 funeral, cremation and cemetery service providers. When you choose a Dignity Memorial provider, you not only receive the compassionate care you expect from a locally operated establishment, but also the value you deserve from the largest and most trusted network of funeral, cremation and memorialization services. As a Dignity Memorial provider, we offer an array of unmatched services, including National Transferability of Prearranged Services, Bereavement Travel Services, a 24-Hour Compassion Helpline® and much more. Whether your need is immediate or you wish to plan in advance, our experienced staff is available to provide caring and thoughtful guidance and support. Please contact us if you need immediate assistance, or if you would like more information about our services.

03/28/2026

Evelyn J. Talley

03/25/2026

Evelyn Jeanette Talley, age 90, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
Born on December 22, 1935, in Brooklyn, New York, Evelyn later moved to Chattanooga, where she graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1953. During her time there, she proudly served as Vice President of her senior class.
Evelyn returned to New York, where she built a meaningful career as a Social Worker with the New York City Department of Social Services, from which she later retired. On May 6, 1961, she married the love of her life, Leroy Talley. In 1974, she was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Queens, New York, beginning a lifelong dedication to her faith.
In 1992, Evelyn relocated back to Chattanooga and became a member of the Hamilton Congregation. She was a devoted servant of her faith and faithfully served as a regular Pioneer from 1991 until her passing.
Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, Dewey Radden, Sr. and Verna Swafford Radden; her siblings, Betty Roberson and Melvin Radden; and her beloved husband, Leroy Talley.
She leaves to cherish her memory her brother, Dewey (Darnetta) Radden of Chattanooga, Tennessee, along with a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, with Brother Robert Davenport officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until the hour of service at the funeral home. The service will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/ChattanoogaValleyView/
Interment will take place at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, March 30, 2026, at Chattanooga National Cemetery.
The family invites you to share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

03/24/2026

James “Slick” Smith, age 93, of Ooltewah, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Born on June 28, 1932, James was a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area and a man deeply rooted in his community. He was the beloved son of the late Melvin Smith, Sr., and Leona V. Donaldson Smith. He was also preceded in death by his devoted wife of 68 years, Sue Smith; his son, Randall Smith; his brothers, Melvin and Don Smith; and his brothers-in-law, Jerry Miller and Teddy Smith.
James lived a life marked by dedication, service, and hard work. He retired from Combustion Engineering after 32 years, where he worked as a skilled boilermaker and later as a carpenter. Never one to slow down, he went on to work as a realtor, continuing to serve others in his community. In addition, James proudly served his country in the Navy Seabees Reserves for 34½ years, retiring with the rank of Chief. He was a member of NMCB 24 and concluded his distinguished service with NMCB 13.
James was a longtime member of St. James Methodist Church.
He leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory: his daughter, Susan (Frank) LeQuire; grandsons, Justin (Jessica) Smith and Matt (Angel) LeQuire; and great-grandchildren, Ansley and Julian Smith. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Phyllis Miller, Marylynn “Sis” Smith, and Sandy (Paul) Weeks, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will remember him fondly.
A celebration of James’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Valley View Chapel, with Pastor Fred Layne officiating. Interment will follow at Chattanooga Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.
Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com
Arrangements are by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

03/16/2026

Part of the Chattanooga Funeral Home Team wishing Pastor Russ Maroon a Happy 90th Birthday. Rev. Maroon and his wife Brenda are past of the CFH Team.

03/11/2026

Hamilton Memorial Gardens and Chattanooga Memorial Park Team members are planning for Easter Sunrise Services, Sunday, April 5th at 7:30 at both locations. The public is invited and lite refreshments will be served.

03/10/2026

Ed Southeard, 72, of McDonald, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on March 5, 2026.
Ed was born on December 12, 1953, in Scottsboro, Alabama. A man of strong faith, dedication, and kindness, he lived a life marked by devotion to his family, his students, and his community.
Ed earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa and later completed his MBA at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. He went on to share his knowledge and passion for business as an esteemed professor in the Business Department at Chattanooga State Community College, where he faithfully served for 21 years. His impact on students and colleagues alike will be remembered for generations.
A devoted Christian, Ed was a faithful member of Silverdale Baptist Church in Chattanooga. His life reflected his deep faith and commitment to serving others.
Outside of his professional life, Ed had a deep love for the outdoors, especially trout fishing. He was also a passionate Alabama football fan who rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Crimson Tide. Above all, his most treasured blessing was his family, whom he loved deeply and wholeheartedly.
Ed was preceded in death by his mother, Delorese Southeard.
He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Sandy Southeard of McDonald, Tennessee; two sons, Ward Southeard and his wife Ryli of East Brainerd, Tennessee, and Mark Southeard and his wife Keri of Charleston, South Carolina; two cherished grandchildren, Simon and Lily, his father, Kenneth Southeard and a cherished uncle, Ron Crawford.
Ed’s legacy of faith, love, and dedication will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Psalm 118:24 – “This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.”
A celebration of life service will be held at 1:00 pm, on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in the Chapel at Silverdale Baptist Church, 7236 Bonny Oaks Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37421, with James Dillard officiating.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Mission Fund of Silverdale Baptist Church, 7236 Bonny Oaks Drive, Chattanooga, TN, 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com
Arrangements by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421

03/05/2026

Nancy Ann Skates, 76, passed away at home on Thursday, February 19, 2026, after a period of declining health. The daughter of Elisha Brantley Skates and Eunice Thompson Cowart Skates, Nancy was born and raised in Chattanooga with her brothers, Richard Cowart, who predeceased her, and Gene Skates. She became a Christian while active in East Lake Baptist Church. A graduate of East Ridge High School, where she was valedictorian of the Class of 1968, she went on to attend the University of Tennessee on a full National Merit scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Spanish.
After college, she began a long career working in human resources for the federal government. Her work took her from Atlanta to Germany and finally to Washington, D.C. to work in Army Headquarters where she worked on employee relations policy matters for Army civilian employees world-wide. She retired with 35 years of distinguished service in 2005.
In retirement, Nancy moved back to the Chattanooga area to be near her mother. In her free time, she enjoyed sewing and knitting, reading, collecting cookbooks, doing puzzles, and keeping up with classmates. She especially enjoyed time with her family and life-long friend Jill Gamble Prus.
Nancy is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Gene and Janet Skates (Kingsport, TN); sister-in-law, Norma Cowart (Nashville, TN); nephews Randy Stone (Fort Oglethorpe, GA), Rick Cowart (Dallas, TX), and Matthew Skates (Nashville, TN); nieces Julie Jones (Little Rock, AR), Susan Chambers (Nolensville, TN), and Jennifer Skates (Washington, D.C.), several great-nieces and nephews, special cousin Perry Skates (Cleveland, TN), and many other cousins and friends. In addition to her parents and half-brother Richard Cowart, she was predeceased by her half-sister, Betty Skates Stone.
Nancy requested to be cremated and to have no service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Nancy’s memory to the UT Office of the Provost for National Merit Scholarships. Donations may be sent to the University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc, 1525 University Avenue, Knoxville TN 37921. Nancy’s desire was that other students would receive the opportunity she was given.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Don Cussom, Darlene Hullander, the Highway 58 Fire Department, and the many talented health care professionals who cared for and supported Nancy. Their dedication and compassion made a significant difference in her last years.

02/25/2026

Nadine Sears Donahoo, age 99, passed away February 22nd, 2026 in Canton, GA. She was born in Chattanooga, TN and remained a resident there until moving to Huntsville, AL in 2008, and then Canton, GA in 2023.
She was a member of Oakwood Baptist Church, Chattanooga, since 1955. Along with her husband, she worked in the Children’s Division Sunday School for over 40 years. Upon moving to Huntsville, she continued to be active at Latham United Methodist Church. She participated in several senior groups, enjoyed cooking, flower gardening, reading, crocheting, and staying in touch with family and friends. She was a 1944 graduate of Central High School and had a long career in administrative work before retiring in 1992.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles E. Donahoo, Sr.; parents, Leonard and Ida Maye Sears; brothers, Leonard Jr. And Claude Sears; sisters-in-law Hazel Sears and Marilyn Sears.
She is survived by her son, Charles E. (Chuck) Donahoo, Jr., and wife Patty of Chattanooga; daughter, Lynn McCarter and husband Bryan of Canton, GA; grandchildren Stephanie Donahoo of Chattanooga; Andrew Donahoo and wife Kendra of Chattanooga; Lyndey Titus and husband Kyle of Canton, GA; Kyle McCarter and fiancée Victoria Gilbert of Johns Creek, GA. Great grandchildren Izzy Donahoo, Isaac Donahoo, Tucker Titus, Tyler Titus along with several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at the Chattanooga Funeral Home Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37421, on Monday, March 2nd, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.
A funeral service will follow visitation, with Rev. Ken Clark and Rev. Grady Dishroon officiating. Burial will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery at 1:30 pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Oakwood Baptist Church Children’s Ministry Department at 4501 Bonny Oaks Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37416.
The family would like to thank the nursing care, personal care, and pastoral care of Affinity Hospice for their services during this time.

02/24/2026

Carmen Maria Vazquez Byron, age 65, of Ooltewah, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her residence on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
She was preceded in death by her father, Carlos Jose Vazquez Santiago. Carmen was a woman of strong Christian faith whose love for her family shaped every part of her life.
Carmen worked as a short order cook, a role that reflected her caring spirit and love of bringing comfort to others through food. She had a passion for travel and especially cherished time spent at the beach. She loved dancing and singing, and she never missed an opportunity to enjoy a good meal at her favorite restaurants. Above all, she was a devoted soccer mom who took great pride and joy in watching her children participate in the sport they loved.
She is survived by her loving husband, Jason Byron; her five children, Victor Vazquez (Andrea), Justina Veasey (Jonathan), Carlos Byron (Ashleigh), Gomér Byron (Anna), and Samuel Byron; and her six cherished grandchildren, Jordan, Lucy, Kyndel, Janae, Justin, and Kai. She also leaves behind her mother, Justina Cruz; her siblings, Evelyn, Carlos, and Jose Vazquez; her sister-in-law, Eugenie; her niece, Zoe; her close friend, Wanda Cruz; and many other beloved family members and friends who will forever treasure her memory.
A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.
Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.
Arrangements are by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

02/14/2026

Barbara Annette Kelly Ray of Ooltewah passed away Feb. 13, 2026, after a long struggle with Primary Progressive Aphasia. She was 66 years old.
More than anything, Barbara delighted in her children and family, from being a Brownie Girl Scout Leader to teaching her daughters to cook. Barbara focused on the well being of all of us.
She doted on and loved her grandson, Jack Tyndall.
Barbara loved her hometown of Oak Ridge, TN. She reveled in telling stories of growing up there with her friends.
Barbara leaves behind to keep her memory alive her husband, Steve. As well as her son Rick Tyndall and her daughters – Kelly Tyndall, Emma Ray and bonus daughter Sara Ray Lewis, and her husband, Sam.
Barbara also leaves behind her loving mother, Toby Kelly of Oak Ridge, TN and her sister, Ruth Fielden, and her husband Joe, of Knoxville, TN. Also, her Sister-in-Law Theresa Smith and her husband Paul.
A very special thank you to Barbara’s best friend, Teresa Richardson, for her dedication to Barbara’s well being and unwavering support.
Barbara’s father Bill Kelly, her sister Elizabeth Johnson and her brother Bill Kelly Jr. passed before her.
Barbara loved all of us so much.
Our family would like to thank Hospice of Chattanooga for all the help during Barbara’s last year of this life.
Instead of sending flowers and cards, simply find a spot in your yard this Spring that needs attention, and plant a Peony Bush. It was Barbara’s favorite.
Visitation will be Tuesday Feb. 17 from 10:00 am to Noon at Chattanooga Funeral Home, 7414 Old Lee Hwy. Chattanooga, TN.
Graveside service will Feb. 17 at 3:00 pm – Oak Ridge Memorial Park – Oak Ridge, TN.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com.
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02/11/2026

Mark Allen Dragoo, born November 11, 1958, in Indianapolis, Indiana, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 10, 2026, leaving behind a life marked by faith, service, and unwavering love.
Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and JoAnne Dragoo.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Julie Dragoo, and his sons Zach (Ali) Dragoo, Will (Rebecca) Dragoo, and Tyler (Emily) Dragoo. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Carter, Cami, Florence, Cooper, Summer, Lewis, Brooke, Walter, Chase, and Magdalene, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his brother Steve Dragoo, his sisters Susan Whited and Cathy Burgess, Father and Mother in Law Earl and Carol Marler, and many other extended family members whom he loved dearly. Mark’s love for his family was unmatched. There was nothing he cherished more than his wife and his sons. His family was his greatest blessing, his highest calling, and the source of his deepest joy.
Mark especially treasured the time he spent with Julie and his family at their second home in Titusville, Florida. From trips to Disney World, Universal, the beach, and spring training games, to leisurely golf cart rides around The Great Outdoors, Mark embraced each moment fully. He believed every day was a gift from God and made the most of each one with gratitude and joy.
A man of deep and steadfast faith, Mark was a 42-year member of Brainerd Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon, teacher, and volunteer. His life reflected a sincere commitment to serving others and living out the love of Christ in everyday faithfulness.
For more than 40 years, Mark devoted himself to education and athletics at Brainerd Baptist School and Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) and used that platform to spread and show the love of Jesus. He spent 33 years at CSAS as a teacher and athletic director and served as head boys’ basketball coach for 31 years, while also coaching cross country, track, soccer, and baseball. Over the course of his basketball coaching career, he amassed more than 700 victories.
Yet, Mark measured success not by wins, but by lives changed. His greatest accomplishment was the impact he had on thousands of students and athletes, shaping them through character, discipline, encouragement, and faith. He built what became known as the Patriot family, establishing a legacy that will live on for generations.
In recognition of his lasting influence and accomplishments, CSAS honored Mark by naming its basketball court “Mark Dragoo Court,” a permanent reminder of a man whose impact extended far beyond the game.
Mark lived with full confidence in the promises of God. While he will be deeply missed, his family and all who loved him find comfort in knowing he is now healed, whole, and rejoicing in eternal glory.
“Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23).
Visitation will be held on Friday, February 13th, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Brainerd Baptist Church. A Celebration of Life service will take place on Saturday, February 14th, at 11:00 AM, also at Brainerd Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Brainerd Baptist Church and the Amedisys Foundation.
Amedisys Foundation
3854 American Way, Suite A
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
www.amedisys.com/about/foundation/
Brainerd Baptist Church
300 Brookfield Avenue
Chattanooga, TN 37411
Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com
Arrangements by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Address

7414 Old Lee Highway
Chattanooga, TN
37421

Telephone

+14236982541

Website

http://www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com/

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