Williams Funeral Home & Crematory

02/23/2026

Ricky Lain Johnson

Ricky Lain Johnson, age 71, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, at NHC-Maury Regional Transitional Care Center.

Born on August 22, 1954, in Columbia, Ricky was the beloved son of Paul and Roberta “Cook” Johnson. He grew up alongside his two siblings, sharing a childhood full of memories that he carried with him throughout his life. Columbia was always home in his heart.

Ricky proudly served his country in the United States Army for over 20 years. His military service reflected his strength, dedication, and deep sense of duty. He carried that same commitment and loyalty into every part of his life, especially when it came to his family.

Ricky was a man who found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He had a special talent for painting and drawing, creating pieces that reflected both his creativity and his gentle spirit. He loved spending time outdoors, especially sitting under the shade tree on his golf cart, taking in the fresh air and the quiet moments he treasured. Known for his quick wit and wonderful sense of humor, Ricky could make those around him laugh with ease, and his lighthearted nature brought comfort and happiness to family and friends alike.

More than anything, Ricky loved his family. He was a proud and devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He cherished every visit, every story shared, and every laugh from his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Even his grand pup, Loki, held a special place in his heart. The love he gave so freely will continue to live on in each of them.

He is survived by his children: Melissa (John Matheny) Johnson, Stacy (Blake) Smith, and Shane (Jessica) Johnson; his grandchildren: Brett Holder, Cole (Selena) Holder, Kara Stedman, Celeigh Smith, and Oakley Smith; and his great-grandchildren: Kaylee Holder and Naomi Holder. He is also survived by his siblings, Tanna (Randy) Carroll and Kenny (Charlene) Johnson.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his beloved grandson, Wesley Holder, who surely welcomed him home.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 27, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., with a service to follow at 2:00 p.m. at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia.

Pallbearers will include Brett Holder, Cole Holder, John Matheny, and Blake Smith, with honorary pallbearers Bill Crigger and Phil Adkisson.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at NHC- Maury Regional Transitional Care Center, Dr. Kendrick and his staff, and the compassionate team at Maury Regional Medical Center for the kindness, care, and dignity shown to Ricky during his final days.

Ricky will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.

View Ricky Lain Johnson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/21/2026

William R. "Willie" Runions Jr

William R. “Willie” Runions Jr. passed away on February 17 at Maury Regional Medical Center following an extended illness.

Willie was born on April 12, 1966, to the late William Robert Runions Sr. and Jo Ann King Runions. From an early age, he carried a strong spirit and independent nature that would define the way he lived his life.

Anyone who knew Willie knew he was one of the best mechanics around. He had a natural talent for fixing just about anything and took pride in his work. Some might have described him as an outlaw or a rebel without a cause, but those who loved him knew he simply lived life on his own terms. Willie embraced life fully, chasing what he wanted and doing whatever he set his mind to with determination and heart.

Willie is survived by his other half, Katrina Runions, and his beloved dog and loyal companion, Aries. He leaves behind his children, Nathan (Ashley) Runions, Justin (Jessica) Runions, and Brittney (Brittany) Runions. He was a proud grandfather to Jaelynn, Jaxson, and Jase, who brought him great joy.

He is also survived by his siblings, Julie (Crafton) Woodard and Barry (Vicki) Runions; a very special friend and the mother of his children, Kimberly Holder Runions; and several loving nieces and nephews: Carol Ann Hendrix, Ashley Lunn, Lee Runions, Christopher Miller, and Matthew Miller.

In addition to his parents, Willie was preceded in death by his sisters, Susie Couey and Lisa Miller; his niece, Meika Capps; and Nathan’s mother, Sherri Hodge.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Enterprise Community Center in Mt. Pleasant on April 4 at 2:00 p.m., where family and friends will gather to honor and remember a man who truly lived life his way.

View William R. "Willie" Runions Jr's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/20/2026

Angela Hall

Mary Angeline Lovell Hall, age 79, passed away on February 18, 2026, in Columbia, Tennessee.

Angela was born in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee, where she built a life rooted in faith, family, and service to others. She dedicated her career to caring for people as a nurse, a role that reflected her natural kindness and compassion.

She had a deep love for cooking, gardening, and filling her yard with flowers, but nothing mattered more to her than family. Angela was known for her kind heart, her sharp sense of humor and her devotion to those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Ruby V. Cummings; her father, Erbie E. Lovell; and her brother, Staley Lovell.

Angela is survived by her loving husband, Jerry D. Hall; her sister, Pam (Davis) L. Honey; her brother, Bill (Diane) G. Lovell; her son, Jeremy (Misti) D. Hall; her grandsons, Devin (Nicole) D. Hall & Dakota W. Underwood; and her great grandson Lincoln D. Hall. All of whom will miss her greatly. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Pallbearers will be Davis Honey, Trint Cotham, Devin Hall, Dakota Underwood, Logan Pinkerton and Jayden Cotham.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Williams Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee. Burial will be at Arlington Cemetery. Rev. Eddie Watson will be officiating.

The family extends a special thank you to the employees of Lifecare of Columbia and Compassus Hospice for their love and kindness.

Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the Hall family.

View Angela Hall's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/18/2026

Rudolph Wurlitzer Knoop

Rudolph Henry Wurlitzer Knoop, 77, of Summertown, TN, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 13, 2026, in Columbia, TN, succumbing to mounting complications from his struggle with cancer.

He is survived by his brothers Christopher and Anthony and predeceased by his sister Janet and brothers John and Richard. He is also survived by his children Luther, George, Carlos, and Ethan, grandchildren Isaiah and Jeremiah, and a collection of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and more that meant the world to him but are far too numerous to list.

Born in Cincinnati, OH on July 20, 1948, to Frederic and Annette Wurlitzer Knoop, Rudy developed his lifelong love of nature, storytelling, and activism growing up on the family's goat farm as the second youngest son in a burgeoning collection of artists and deep thinkers. This unique upbringing instilled in him both the value of hard, honest work and the beauty of always being open and learning in every way possible.

From these beginnings, he became a man of passionate conscience and kindhearted consideration in everything he did in the world. He attended Harvard University but left to pursue the calling of his heart toward anti-war and civil rights activism, and building alternative communities focused on cooperative living. This led him to become a founding member of the historic and influential intentional community known as The Farm, where he played important parts in developing sustainable farming methods and in outreach to the surrounding communities in Summertown, TN and beyond, aided by his remarkable gift at building friendship and connection across cultural divides.

Over more than a decade of life on The Farm, Rudy also began his family in partnership with Marilyn Read of San Francisco, CA, with all four of their children being born as part of the community’s groundbreaking midwifery program. After leaving The Farm the family eventually resettled in Northern California, where Rudy began a career installing, sanding, and finishing hardwood flooring, a trade which he excelled at and that supported him much of his life. He became a master craftsman, owning and operating a successful business as an independent contractor, and taking great pride in marrying exceptional artistry with conscientious workmanship.

However, despite his dedication and care for his vocation (frequently recounting that he had laid more than ten acres of flooring in his life) his true calling always remained advocating for a better world. He endeavored to do this explicitly through well-chosen action, and implicitly by living a life that defiantly declared that kindness, compassion, and understanding are the greatest virtues one can aspire to. Later in life he was able to put this drive into practice working as a journalist at several local newspapers around Mendocino County, CA, but everywhere he lived, Rudy found friends with the same passion, collecting and sharing their stories with anyone who might listen.

Whether being a charming gadfly at Country Day School in Cincinnati, OH as a teenager in the 1960s, building rapport with the neighbors of The Farm in the 1970s, creating a home for his children in Cloverdale, CA in the 1980s and 1990s, becoming a local fixture and renowned cowboy poet in the twin communities of Round Valley in Covelo, CA in the 2000s and 2010s, or returning to live near his grandchildren and connect with friends old and new in Summertown, TN for the final years of his life, Rudy lived a life of admirable principle intent on bringing people together and inspiring them by example to be their best selves.

His children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins and extended community of family and friends will carry his example forward into the world, and welcome donations made in his name to organizations that seek to bring tolerance, justice, and peaceful coexistence to the world, such as Plenty, Al Otro Lado, The King Center, The Hind Rajab Foundation, and Veterans for Peace.

View Rudolph Wurlitzer Knoop's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/16/2026

Peggy Jo Cole

Ms. Peggy Jo Cole (nee Nance) was born February 7, 1960, in Maury County, Tennessee to her parents, the late Mr. Ollie Claude (O.C.) Nance and Mrs. Betty Jo Nance (nee Bell). Peggy grew up in Mt. Pleasant, Tennessee along with her older brother Nicky. She attended Columbia State Community College, earning her associate's degree in radiologic technology. She worked for Dr. James Wiseman and Williamson Medical Center throughout her medical career. She loved traveling, being creative, watching horror films, reading, spending time outdoors, cooking, and, most of all, spending time with her grandchildren, Coraline and Albert. She showed tenacity and strength throughout her life, especially during her battle with cancer. Peggy Jo Nance Brashears Cole passed from this life on February 15, 2026, at the age of 66 years and 8 days.

Those left to honor her memory include her son James Kenneth Brashears II and wife Tiffany of Columbia, TN; daughter Lauren Ashley Baud and husband Samuel of Munster, IN; granddaughter Coraline Audrey Brashears of Columbia, TN; grandson Albert Cole Baud of Munster, IN as well as many other family members and friends.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brother Nicky Neal Nance.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 5pm to 8pm at the Columbia location of Williams Funeral Home. Interment will be at Polk Memorial Gardens at a later date.

Williams Funeral Home is honored to service the Cole family.

View Peggy Jo Cole's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/16/2026

Happy Presidents Day from Williams Funeral Home.

Today we honor the presidents who have helped guide our nation, and we reflect on the sacrifices, leadership, and service that have shaped the United States over the past 250 years.

Here in Columbia, Tennessee, we’re reminded of that history through the legacy of James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States. From his home on the square to the monument at Polk Memorial Gardens, his story remains an important part of our community.

02/13/2026

Edward Carey Knappins

Edward Carey Knappins, age 78, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, at Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia, Tennessee.

Ed was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Robert and Isabel Knappins; his devoted wife, Jennifer Knappins; his cherished grandson, Nicholas Howard; his brothers Bob, Bill, and Russ Knappins; and his sister, Debbie Knappins.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Melissa (Ryan) Hundley; his son, James Knappins; his grandchildren Brianna, Alicia, Alexandra, Mikayla, Brayden, and Brightyn; and his great-grandchildren Brandon, Ivory, Eliana, Everleigh, and a precious new baby girl. His family was his pride and joy, and he treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ed proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army. Following his military service, he dedicated more than 30 years of hard work to General Motors before retiring. His strong work ethic and steady presence were qualities admired by all who knew him.

He had a deep love for baseball, faithfully cheering on his favorite team, the Atlanta Braves. He also enjoyed making trips to Tunica, Mississippi, where he spent many happy hours at the casinos. Edward found simple pleasures in life — a cold cherry Sundrop on a warm day, watching his favorite television series, NCIS, and following criminal investigation shows.

Known for his quick wit and playful spirit, Edward was a true jokester. He loved making others laugh and could always be counted on to share a funny remark or lighthearted story, brightening any room he entered.

Above all, Edward will be remembered for the time he devoted to his family. Whether sharing stories, watching ballgames, or simply sitting together, those moments meant the world to him.

His legacy of love, dedication, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Columbia Chapel of Williams Funeral Home from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. A memorial service will follow at 3:00 p.m.

American Legion Post 19 will be rendering military honors.

In lieu of flowers, you may give to the American Cancer Society his memory.

Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the Knappins Family.

View Edward Carey Knappins's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/11/2026

Ray McCain

Morris Ray McCain passed from this life into eternal rest on February 10, 2026. Born March 18, 1949, Ray spent his childhood through early adult years in Mt. Pleasant, TN, where he met and married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Gail Jones McCain. From Mt. Pleasant to Charleston, SC and back to Mt. Pleasant, they celebrated 57 beautiful years of marriage having three daughters, seven grandchildren, and four (soon to be six) great-grandchildren.

Ray began his working life by joining the Army National Guard. He then held a variety of jobs in several different chemical plants, moving up through the ranks to ultimately end up as purchasing manager at Cytec in Mt. Pleasant. He and Gail also had a rental property business that they ran together.

But who was Ray? Dairy farmer. Dirt bike rider. Airplane pilot. Car dealer. Story teller. Mechanic. Inventor. Singer. Banjo and guitar picker. Dog lover. Fisherman. He was all of those things, but most importantly, he was a Christian husband, father, and family man. He was “Papaw” to everyone!

He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Sara McCain, sister, Betty Ann McCain, and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws.

He is survived by his loving wife, Gail McCain, daughter Andrea (Jimmy) Peyton, daughter Christy Langford, daughter Mary (Roger) Hay, sister Terry (Rickey) Massey, and sisters-in-law Connie Cathey and Vickie Pratt. Ray’s grandchildren, Katie Peyton, Lauren (Chris) Baldwin, Jonathan (Emily) Peyton, Caroline (Connor) Wakefield, Marissa and Maggie Hay, and Sara “George” Langford, brought many years of immeasurable happiness to his life! His great-grandchildren, Zander, Zaxton, and Wrenley Baldwin and Charlie Rae Wakefield made his face light up with joy!

Serving as pall bearers are his grandson, Jonathan Peyton, nephews, Drew and Adam Massey and Ben and Brett Jones, and special friends Randy Drane, George Gilliam, and Bradly McNeece. Honorary pall bearers are Gary Cooper, Rusty Davis, Harold Edwards, Wallace Embry, Bobby Ingram, Rick Landers, Rickey Massey, Tom Matyskiela, Bob Mullenix, Stevie McCain, Rickey Ritter, Vernon White, Bunny Whitwell, and Roosevelt Yarber.

For the selfless support offered through the final battle with Parkinson’s disease, the family would like to extend special thanks to Tim Brashears and Gentiva Hospice. Dr. Michael Brewer and Dr. Lucy Ledbetter also offered wonderful care up to the point that hospice took over. In addition, the family wishes to thank McCains Cumberland Presbyterian Church, where Ray was a member (along with Gail), for their multiple displays of love and support.

Post 19 will be rendering military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to McCains Cumberland Presbyterian Church (PO Box 29, Columbia, TN 38402).

A funeral service for Ray will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Williams Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee, with Bro. Jimmy Peyton officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 11:00 AM to the start of the service at Williams Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee. Ray will be laid to rest at Polk Memorial Gardens.

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family at williamsfh.com.

View Ray McCain's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/11/2026

Betty Reubena Pridy

Betty “Nan” Pridy, born February 28, 1941, in Primm Springs, Tennessee, to the late Reuben W. Green and Hazel Sullivan Green, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, surrounded by love and the legacy she so beautifully created.

Betty was a woman who understood what truly mattered in life, faith, family, and love. A devoted wife and a wonderful mother, she was a caretaker by nature, always putting the needs of others before her own. She found joy in caring for her animals, tending her garden, and creating a home where everyone felt welcomed and safe.

Her faith was lived daily through kindness, compassion, and service to others. A gifted cook, Betty fed her family every Sunday for decades, filling her home with warmth, laughter, and togetherness. She was always there to lend a hand in caring for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as their friends, offering love freely and without condition.

To her family, Nan was a source of comfort, strength, and unwavering support. She delighted in spoiling her grandchildren as often as she could and remained the steady rock of her family for many years.

Betty is now reunited in her heavenly home with her beloved husband, Bill, whom she cherished deeply. Her life was a testament to love and kindness, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Betty is survived by her daughters: Cindy Jett and Jennifer Moore. Beloved son in law: Tim Moore; grandchildren: Dawn Melton, Matthew (Lilly) Moore, and Nick (Briana) Moore; great grandchildren: Malia McGill, Jon Melton, Baker Moore, and Callie Moore; special nephew: Dennis Green. Betty is preceded in death by Bill “Pop” Pridy in 2014.

The family will lay Betty to rest privately at Polk Memorial Gardens in Columbia, TN at a later date.

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family at www.williamsfh.com

View Betty Reubena Pridy's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/11/2026

A friendly reminder — you’re invited!

Join us at Mt. Pleasant Grille on February 17th at 6:00 PM for a free meal and a helpful pre-planning seminar. Seating begins at 5:45 PM.

This is a relaxed, community-focused evening where you can enjoy dinner, learn more about planning ahead, and ask any questions you may have.

Limited seating available — please RSVP.
📞 Call us to reserve your seat!

Jessica Clawson Chatman - Christopher Moore - Leah Boulton - Mt. Pleasant Grille - Polk Memorial Gardens

02/10/2026

Gary Carl Anderson

Gary Carl Anderson passed away February 8, 2026, at Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia, TN.

Gary was born on February 25, 1934, in Russell, Pennsylvania, to Alfred and Catherine Michael Anderson. He graduated from Randolph Central High School in 1951 and went on to build a life centered around family, faith, and lifelong interests.

Gary lived in Lynnville, Tennessee, with his daughter-in-law, Sharon Payne, along with Scott Payne and Michelle Denney. He was a faithful member of Campbellsville United Methodist Church, where he found comfort and community.

Gary enjoyed staying active and engaged. He liked traveling, working on his truck, browsing on his computer, participating in the HAM radio club, and reading his Bible. He also held a pilot’s license, something he took great pride in.

Gary is survived by his children, Jodie (Ray) Oberst, Terri (Charlie) Enser, Kevin Anderson, and Dennie Anderson, all of New York. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Sharon Payne of Tennessee and Stephen (Jeannie) Chapman of Georgia; his brother, Claire (Jean) Anderson of New York; his sister, Karen (late Thomas) Lecceadone of New York; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will remember him fondly.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lorretta Chapman Anderson; his son, Gary Anderson Jr.; his brothers, Dale (Jayne) and Brian Anderson; and his parents.

Williams Funeral Home (Columbia, TN) is assisting the family with all arrangements.

View Gary Carl Anderson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/09/2026

Jimmy Floyd

Jimmy L. “Pappy” Floyd Sr. passed away on February 8th at his residence, following an extended illness. He was surrounded by the love of his life and the faith that guided his life.

Jimmy was born on August 17, 1949, to the late W.C. Floyd Jr. and Melva Williamson Floyd. He was a member of the Haylong High School Class of 1967. He was also a member of Southside Baptist Church in Mt. Pleasant. Jimmy honorably served his country in the U.S. Army Honor Guard, stationed in Arlington, Virginia.

On February 2, 1979, Jimmy married the love of his life, Brenda Corbett Floyd. Their marriage was a true partnership built on love, faith, and devotion, sharing 47 wonderful years together.

Anyone who knew Jimmy knew him to be hardworking, honest, and a God-loving man. He was well known for his strong work ethic and integrity as the owner of Jimmy Floyd Air Compressor Service, which he faithfully operated for many years before retiring in 2020. Jimmy took great pride in providing for his family and serving his community.

In addition to his beloved wife Brenda, Jimmy is survived by his children: Jimmy (Susie) Floyd Jr., Josh Floyd, Ashley (Willie) Green, Randall (Nikki) Price, and Regina (Bobby) Gray. He also leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren: Brittany (Brittney) Runions, Christopher (Makayla) Fields, Hunter Floyd, Ryan Price, Emilee (Cody) Bickers, Taylin Wheeler, Aliyah Green, Brylee Green, Tori (Nick) Keedy, Sammie Jo Swink, and Zach Floyd.

Jimmy is also survived by his sister, Gay Floyd, his brothers, Phil (Penny) Floyd and Ricky Floyd, along with a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will cherish his memory.

In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by his son, Clay Floyd, and his brother, William Allen (Darlene) Floyd.

Funeral services for Jimmy L. Floyd Sr. will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Williams Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee with full Military Honors, and Jacob Dale and Bro. Jimmy Naive officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 12, 2026 from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Jimmy will be laid to rest at Polk Memorial Gardens following the service.

Pall bearers will be Jason Hatcher Christopher Fields, Josh Floyd, Randall Price, Jim Floyd, and Willie Green.

Honorary Pall Bearers include Gary Joe King, Charlie Lovett, Gary Beasley, Bobby Gray, Lee Gray, Ricky Lovell, Monty Norman and members of “The Shop”.

View Jimmy Floyd's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.