Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist-Valley View Chapel

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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02/14/2026

Barbara Annette Ray, born on January 20, 1960, passed away on February 13, 2026, at the age of 66.

A Graveside Service will be held at Oak Ridge Memorial Park on February 17, 2026, starting at 3:00 pm.

Arrangements by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Valley View Chapel.

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.

02/11/2026

Patricia W Tucker, a beloved and thoughtful individual, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on February 9, 2026, at the age of 89. She was a resident of Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Born on May 28, 1936, in San Antonio, Texas, Patricia was the daughter of Virgil Wilder and Claudia Louise Updyke. She attended high school at Bracken Ridge in San Antonio. Patricia worked as an operator for Southwest Telephones, where her generous and patient nature was evident to all who knew her.
On October 15, 1957, Patricia married Larry Tucker, with whom she shared a loving marriage of 68 years. Together, they raised their son David Tucker and their late son James Dean Tucker. Patricia was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, cherished by her family and friends.
Patricia had a passion for cross-stitching, reading, and computer games. She was known for her feisty and outspoken personality, always honest and true to herself. Her home was a haven for neighborhood children, where they could always find a snack or a friendly greeting. She was a strong supporter of police officers, often offering meals, potlucks, and holiday food to them and their families.
Patricia is survived by her loving husband Larry Tucker, her son David, daughter-in-law Julie, her sister Pam Dunn, and her two grandchildren, Joelle and Jamie. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Peggy (Gentry), her brother Jimmy (Wilder), and her late son James Dean Tucker.
Patricia W Tucker will be remembered for her generous spirit, her dedication to family and community, and her unwavering honesty. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be held at Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist – Valley View on 7414 Old Lee Highway Chattanooga, TN 37421 on Sunday, February 15th, 2026 from 1:00PM to 5:00PM. Graveside service will take place the following Monday, February 16th, 2026 at 10:00AM at National Cemetery located on 1200 Bailey Ave Chattanooga, TN 37404.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to the Alzheimer's Association to help research for Alzheimer’s Disease. Donations can be made at: www.donorservices.alz.org
Share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com

01/28/2026

Leisa Jane Massingill, a resident of Harrison, Tennessee, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the age of 67.
Born to the late Wesley and Lois Farmer, Leisa was a woman of great intellect and even greater heart. She was preceded in death by her beloved sister and brother-in-law, Debbie and Adrian Hart.
Throughout her professional life, Leisa was a respected fixture in her field, retiring as a shared branch manager and a dedicated trainer with the Tennessee Credit Union League. A woman of many interests, she was a former member of Bayside Baptist Church and an avid fan of the television show Survivor. She found true peace in her creativity, specifically through her love for card making and stamping, which allowed her to share her artistic spirit with others.
Above all else, Leisa’s world revolved around her family. She cherished the time they spent together, and nothing brought a brighter smile to her face than being with "the babies" of the family.
She is survived by her loving husband of 24 years, Grady Massingill, of Harrison, Tennessee, and her two brothers, Terry Farmer of Ringgold and Jim Farmer (Regina) of Atlanta. Her legacy of love continues through her nieces and nephews, Michael Hart (Jolene), Taleisa Starnes, Ashley Chambliss (T), Lee Farmer, Donna Cockrell (Tommy), and Star Richey (Jeff), as well as several cousins and many great-nieces and great-nephews.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Leisa’s life at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, with Pastor Andy Douglas officiating. Following the service, she will be laid to rest at New McDonald Cemetery in Ooltewah, Tennessee. Serving as pallbearers will be T Chambliss, Gabe Dooley, Jonathan Richey, Lee Farmer, Michael Hart, and Liam Hart. The family will receive friends for a time of remembrance on Friday, January 30, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Chambliss Center for Children at www.chamblisscenter.org or the Humane Educational Society at www.heschatt.org, reflecting Leisa’s compassionate spirit.
Memories and heartfelt thoughts may be shared online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.
Arrangements are under the care of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

01/25/2026

Donald "Donnie" Tipton, a cherished and beloved resident of Harrison, Tennessee, passed away on January 21, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on February 24, 1950, in Cleveland, Tennessee, Donald was known for his faithful, patient, and kind-hearted nature.
Donald graduated from Sequatchie County High School and went on to serve his country as an Army Vietnam era veteran as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, he was a proud patriot. His career as a diesel machinist for Norfolk Southern spanned 36 years, after which he retired, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.
He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Hattie "Patty" Tipton; his children, Terry (Charity) Tipton, Robbie (Jennifer) Tipton, Adam Tipton, and Randall (Haley) Tipton. He also leaves behind six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, as well as his brother, Larry Tipton, sister, Barbara Huff, and many nieces and nephews. Donald is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Nannie Kate Tipton, and siblings, Norma Boston, Ronald Tipton, Janice Bryson, Sharon (Darlene) Higdon, and Dennis Tipton.
A devoted member of Savannah Bay Baptist Church, Donald loved to sing in the choir. He was passionate about fishing and was an avid fan of the Tennessee Volunteers and the Yankees. His generous spirit extended to his community involvement with Mission My Town out of Greenwood Baptist Church, where he was always ready to help those in need.
Donald was a loving and devoted husband, father, and pepaw to his grandchildren. His wise and generous nature will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
The family will receive friends from 10 am to 4pm on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at Savannah Bay Baptist Church, 8018 Ooltewah- Georgetown Road, Ooltewah, TN 37363. Funeral service to follow at the church at 4 pm with Pastor Tom Mcgurit officiating.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Joyce Belcher and the Savannah Bay Baptist Church family for their love and care during this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Savannah Bay Baptist Church at: https://www.savannahbaybaptist.com/visit
Please share thoughts and memories at: www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com

01/25/2026

Mary Ann Angelin, age 86, of Apison, Tennessee, went to sleep in Jesus on January 20, 2026.
Mary Ann was born March 14, 1939, in Crossville, Tennessee, to the late George and Marion Rainwater.
Mary Ann was a homemaker, bookkeeper, and eldercare service provider. She was a faithful member of McDonald Road Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Mary Ann enjoyed having family visit and looked forward to time spent together. She enjoyed cooking and genealogy and took particular interest in maintaining family connections. She kept in regular contact with her brothers, sisters, and extended family over the years, and family remained a priority throughout her life.
Mary Ann was known for her reliability and strong sense of responsibility and was always willing to help when needed. Family, friends, and acquaintances alike often remarked, “She was always good to me.”
Survivors include her husband of many years, Nels Angelin of Apison, TN; sister, Caroline “Polly” Knick of Visalia, CA; brother, Joe Rainwater and wife Margaret of Redmond, OR; sons, Rick Angelin and wife Susie of Ooltewah, TN, and Randy Angelin and wife Gilia of McDonald, TN; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Jimmy Rainwater; sister, June Volkman; and brother, Jack Rainwater.
Mom, it is only a short sleep. We will see you in the resurrection morning.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

01/22/2026

Betty Jean Lane, age 85, of Ooltewah, Tennessee, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, in a local health care facility.
Born on May 7, 1940, in Summerville, Georgia, Betty was the beloved daughter of the late Eugene Russell Wells and Lena Mae Henderson Wells. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, David Rance Lane, Sr.; her cherished daughter and son-in-law, Laura and Bobby Webb; four sisters, Rita Williams, Nell Grimes, Ann Brown, and Lois Skinner; and three brothers, Hollis, Jimmy, and Doyle Wells.
Betty dedicated many years of her life to caring for others as a nurse at Hamilton County Nursing Home, retiring after a long and meaningful career. Her compassionate spirit extended far beyond her work—she loved her family deeply and found simple joy in spending time doing crossword puzzles and word searches. She was a faithful and longtime member of Crossroads Baptist Church in Ooltewah, where she found strength, fellowship, and comfort.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory her son and daughter-in-law, David R. Lane II and Tiffany Lane, of Harrison, Tennessee; her precious grandchildren, McKenzie Penney and husband, Tanner and Kendall Lane; her sister, Nadine Headrick, of Rome, Georgia; along with several nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.
Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, with Pastor Travis Rogers officiating. A private interment will be at Chattanooga National Cemetery.
Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Betty’s memory to the American Diabetes Association at ww.diabetes.org.
Please 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.

01/21/2026

Loretta Gail Loy, a compassionate and faithful soul, passed away on January 19, 2026, at the age of 79. She was born on November 10, 1946, in Sandersville, Georgia, to the late Russell and Lora Certo. She was also preceded in death by a son, Robert Whiteside.
Loretta was a resident of Ooltewah, Tennessee. She was a devoted member of St. Stephen's Catholic Church, where her kindness and commitment to her faith touched the lives of many.
Her legacy of compassion and faithfulness will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Survivors include her children, Lori Csala, Robert (Tathia) Mattila, and Brian Whiteside; six grandchildren, Tommy, Micahl, James, Riley, Carson, and Scout; ten great-grandchildren; and one brother, James Certo.
The family will receive friends from 11:30 - 1:00 on Tuesday. January 27 at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.
Graveside services will follow at 2:00 at Hamilton Memorial Gardens.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com.

01/19/2026

Somchith Nikhomvan, a beloved, brave, devoted, generous, hard-working, loyal, and selfless individual, passed away on January 16, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on March 1, 1938, in Thailand, to the late Chom Nikhomvan and Fy Saysamoud. Somchith made a significant impact on all who knew him.
In his early years, Somchith served as a prominent police captain in Laos, where he was respected for his dedication and leadership. His career was marked by his commitment to justice and his community.
Somchith was a devoted family man. He made the courageous decision to leave his home and career in Laos to bring his family to America, where he worked tirelessly as a laborer to provide them with a better life. His love for his family was unwavering, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
In his personal life, Somchith found joy in fishing, a hobby that allowed him to relax and connect with nature. He also enjoyed traveling the world, walking along the beach, and taking peaceful walks in the park. He and his wife loved gathering with family and friends, cherishing time spent together. Somchith appreciated beauty in all its forms and was a deeply religious man whose faith guided his life.
He is survived by his children, Somkiat, Nikhomvan, Sompasong Nikhomvan, Chindana Nikhomvan, Sonephet Phommatha, and Kanokone Noke Nikhomvan; his grandchildren, Johnny, Sandy, Linda, Andy, Billy, Stephanie, Ricky, Heather, Vannessa, Lisa, Jennifer, Elizabeth, and Nicholas Nikhomvan; and his great-grandchildren, Elijah, Alaia, Levi, Ivan, Everly, Everlyne, Riley, Tatum, and Raiden Nikhomvan. He also leaves behind his siblings, Likkith Nikhomvan, Atith Nikhomvan, Pradab Nikhomvan, and Frank (Bea) Nikhomvan, along with Frank's children, Nikkie, Neesa, and Christina.
Somchith Nikhomvan will be remembered for his selflessness and enduring love for his family. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him.
The family will receive friends at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home Friday, January 23, from 4-6, 7414 Old Lee Hwy, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421.
A traditional Lao service will be held at 9:00 am Saturday, January 24, at the Wat Buddha Manodham Temple, 364 Davis Road, Chickamauga, Georgia 30707. followed by services at 12:00 pm at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 7414 Old Lee Hwy, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com.

01/18/2026

Ronald W Smith, a beloved and cherished individual, passed away on January 16, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on February 19, 1947, Ronald was a devoted husband, a faithful friend, and a hard-working member of his community.
Ronald was a US Navy veteran, dedicating a significant portion of his life to serving his country with honor and distinction. His commitment to duty and service was a testament to his thoughtful nature and strong character.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Cunningham Kay.
For 53 years, Ronald was the devoted husband of Nancy Smith. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership, marked by mutual respect and unwavering support. He is also survived by a sister-in-law, Joyce Racz, and a brother-in-law, Johnny (Glenda) Noblitt, four nieces and one nephew.
In addition to his family life, Ronald was deeply involved in his community. He was a member of the Bethlehem Mornings Ministry, where he served on their board, contributing his time and effort to the betterment of the organization. His commitment to community service extended to his long-standing role on the Chattanooga Beer Board, where he served for many years.
Ronald W Smith will be remembered for his contributions to his family, community, and country. His legacy of devotion and hard work will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
The family will receive friends from 1-3 p.m. at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home on Sunday, January 25, followed by funeral services at 3 p.m. Interment will be at the Chattanooga National Cemetery
Donations may be given in his name to Bethlehem Mornings Ministry C/O Dr. Bill Owens 2684 Churchill Downs Circle, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421
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01/18/2026

Billie Brunson McLeod died at home in Chattanooga, Tennessee on Saturday, January 10th.
Billie Lou Brunson was born on October 28, 1938 in Davis Station, South Carolina to Harry and Mary Brunson. She grew up on the family farm and worked at Dingle’s Grocery Store in Summerton. She graduated from Summerton High in 1956 and Winthrop in 1960. She married Jerry McLeod in 1960 and they spent their married life in Columbia, South Carolina and Chattanooga.
Billie spent her life giving to many individuals and groups including Red Bank Methodist Church, Red Bank and Hixson School PTOs, Girl Scouts, Christian Women’s Club, Symphony Guild, Tennessee Junior Miss Pageant, and others.
Billie was a member of Red Bank Methodist Church and involved in many ministries and activities. She loved God and believed the best way to tell others about Jesus was through her actions. She lived this out through her generosity, thoughtfulness, and unconditional love for those in her life. She had the unique gift of being able to connect with people, no matter how much or how little they had in common. This earned her the title of “best friend” by countless people in her life, including both friends and family members. She was passionate about hospitality and hosted Thanksgiving and Christmas each year for her family and friends. While she was an exceptional decorator and natural entertainer, so much of her joy came from seeing others laughing and conversing around her table. She was a detailed planner who valued organization, yet was also known as the life of the party.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jerome Nelson “Jerry” McLeod Jr; her brothers Jimmy, Steve, and Jerry “Tub” Brunson; sisters Alice Coleman and June Wilson; brothers-in-law, Byrns Coleman, James Vaughan and Charles Weeks. She was also predeceased by Jerry’s sisters, Sissy Weatherford Drew, and Martha Ann Branham; and brothers-in-law, Gene Weatherford, Frank Drew and Sam Branham.
Billie is survived by children and in-laws Nelson and Robin McLeod, Libby and William Camp, and Caki and Billy Thibodeaux. Her grandchildren are Michelle (Sam) Jones, Jay McLeod, Brittany (Carey) Bryant, Kristen (Clint) Landers, Eric Camp, Austin (Mickayla) Camp, Justin Camp, Lee (Alicia) Thibodeaux, Kyle (Rachel) Thibodeaux, and Jake (Audrey) Thibodeaux. Her beloved great-grandchildren are Graham and Noah Jones, Kayleigh and Clara Landers, Jerome and Emory Thibodeaux, Jax and Titus Thibodeaux, and Ann Hollis, Taylor, and McLeod Thibodeaux.
Billie’s siblings are Ginger Vaughan, Lois Weeks, Rose (Frankie) Drose, Ruby (Bill) Livingston, Gloria (Ken) Holladay, and Gayle Brunson; brother-in-law, Joe Wilson (Pam); and sister-in-law, Cindy Brunson; Jerry’s siblings are Robert (Beth) McLeod, and Frank (Beth) McLeod.
Billie donated her body to medical research. No formal services will be held. Memorials can be made to The Therapy Place, 3620 Covenant Road, Forest Acres, South Carolina, 29204.