George A. Smith and Sons Funeral Home

03/11/2026

Today we celebrate National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Day and take a moment to honor the dedication, compassion, and professionalism of the men and women who serve families during some of life’s most difficult moments.

Our staff works tirelessly behind the scenes and alongside families to provide comfort, guidance, and meaningful tributes for those who have passed. Their commitment to caring for others with dignity and respect is something we are incredibly proud of every day.

Thank you to our amazing team for the heart you put into your work and the difference you make in our community. We are grateful for each of you.

03/10/2026

It is with great sadness that the family of Joyce R. Shearin, age 80 of Jackson, announces her passing on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.

She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Leah Lundgren and her husband, David.

She was born on April 30, 1945, at home in Jackson, TN. After high school she attended West Tennessee Business School before marrying Kelly and having two children - Leah and Rhett. Later in life after returning to school and obtaining her B.S. in Accounting from Lambuth College, she worked as the Accounting Manager at Kilgore. After retiring from accounting, she took on new challenges to become a realtor and opened her own realty firm - Sunrise Properties. She loved everyone with her whole heart.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husband, Kelly Shearin and her son Rhett Shearin.

No Services will be held at this time.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/joyce-shearin-12777139

03/10/2026

Barbara Voelker Ormerod, age 88 of Jackson, passed away Saturday, March 7, 2026 at home in Jackson.

She was born on August 3, 1937 in Philadelphia, PA to the late Donald and Mable Edwards Voelker. In high school, she was involved in sports, and was a member of the basketball team at Nazareth Academy. She attended Temple University and Lambuth College, then finished at Union University in Jackson, TN with her Master's. She began her career working at Jerrold Electronics in Pennsylvania before moving to Jackson, TN. After relocating, she was a volunteer at Birthright, then worked at the center for adult education as a Counselor. Barbara was a woman of many interests and talents. She enjoyed reading, calligraphy, and playing the guitar.

She was an active member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, where she led her own bible study group, was a part of the choir and taught classes for several years. She loved animals, especially her beloved cat Jax. Her favorite thing to do though was spending time with her kids and grandchildren, often sharing stories and memories with them. Barbara was funny, witty, and highly adored by everyone that knew her. She was an amazing wife, mother and grandmother and will be deeply missed.

In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Alan Davenport Ormerod; and her son, Alan Michael Ormerod.

She is survived by her sons, Robert Ormerod (April) and Steven Ormerod (Mary); grandchildren, Serena Tyndall, Kaitlin Ormerod-Hutson, Jacob Ormerod, Ryan Ormerod, Luke Ormerod, Zac Ormerod, Samantha Ormerod, and Christopher Sullins; and great grandchildren, Alice Hutson, Margot Hutson, and Stephen Tyndall.

A celebration of the life of Barbara Ormerod will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at St. Mary's Catholic Church. The family will receive friends from 9:00am-10:30am, directly followed by a rosary and Mass of Christian Burial. She will then be laid to rest at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers and customary remembrances, the family requests memorials in Barbara’s memory be directed to LeBonhuer Children’s Hospital in Memphis.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/barbara-ormerod-12775019

03/06/2026

03/03/2026

Mary Morton Lewis, age 84, was born on October 14, 1941, in Tishomingo County, Mississippi, to the late Carl and Grace Morton. She peacefully passed away on February 26, 2026, at Henderson Health and Rehabilitation Center.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 60 wonderful years, Stennis Lewis; her parents; and her brothers, Leon (Lana) Morton and J.W. Morton.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her family. She is survived by her daughter, Trudy Lovell (Glenn); granddaughter, Kimberly Howell (Jeremy); grandson, Bradley Lovell; and a cherished line of great-grandchildren: Annafaith Howell (Ryan Yarber), Alligrace Howell, Aaylahope Howell, Grant Lovell (Savannah), Jessie Taylor (Anthony), Paityn Lovell, O’Neal Tolbert, and Carlee Tolbert. She was also blessed with great-great-grandchildren Oakley Yarber, Atlas Taylor, and Dean and Katie Lovell.

Mary is also survived by special extended family members including Leigh Ann Browning (Mike), Taylor Hunt, Ira Lewis (Deloris), and her cousin Earl Glenn. She treasured her longtime friendship with Doris Joyner and held close the many nieces and nephews who were dear to her heart.

Mary retired from Union Planters after 25 years of faithful service. She and Stennis shared a love for the Great Smoky Mountains, where they made treasured memories with family and friends. A devoted member of South Jackson Church of Christ, Mary deeply loved her church family and remained steadfast in her faith throughout her life.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at South Jackson Church of Christ on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. An interment service to reunite Mary and Stennis will be held at Highland Memorial Gardens on March 16, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to South Jackson Church of Christ, 845 Hwy 18, Medon, TN 38356, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Mary will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her steadfast faith, and the gentle kindness she shared with everyone who knew her. Her life was a testament to love, loyalty, and grace.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/mary-lewis-12764824

02/25/2026

David Alan Darnell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, pharmacist and musician, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026 surrounded by loved ones. He lived a life marked by hardwork, curiosity, and faithfulness.

Born in Lansing, Michigan, Dave the son of Bill Mac and Nancy Darnell, spent his teenage years in Gleason, Tennessee.

In the summer of 1983, he married his soulmate Karen E. Weber, and in doing so gained the joy of helping raise her young daughter (Laura), whom he loved and cherished as his own.

His young family spent two years in Paris, Tennessee where he worked as a pharmacist at Super D drugstore. His family then relocated to Kansas City where they spent five wonderful years making lifelong memories and friendships. In 1989 they returned to their hometown in West Tennessee where Dave spent the last years of his profession working for Walgreen’s.

In the years that followed, Dave and Karen enjoyed their times together at the Tennessee River. He was most at peace by the river with a guitar in hand. Young at heart, he had a special gift for connecting with children and treasured every moment spent with his granddaughter, nieces and nephews.

Dave was preceded in death by his father, Bill Mac Darnell.

He is survived by his loving wife Karen Darnell; his cherished mother Nancy White; his daughter Laura Giles (Tripp); his beloved granddaughter Caitlin Giles; his siblings Mike Darnell (Kim), Jeff Darnell (Christine), Joan Dickinson (Brent), and Carol Miller (Scott); and numerous nieces and nephews.

A service to celebrate the life of Dave Darnell will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 12:00 pm at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons with burial following in Highland Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m., two hours prior to the service.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/david-darnell-12760103

02/24/2026

With love, we celebrate the life of Brenda Joyce Azbill Wheatley of Jackson, TN, who passed away on February 22, 2026 at the age of 82.

Born July 4, 1943, Brenda was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and faithful servant of the church, and is remembered for a life shaped by her devotion to God and her steadfast care for others.

Brenda grew up in Pinson, TN and attended Parkburg Baptist Church in her youth. She later made Malesus United Methodist Church her church home, where she shared her gifts as a pianist, choir member, and volunteer in numerous ministries.

Brenda married Bill Wheatley on July 20, 1973. She was a devoted mother to Nathan Wheatley (wife Sheila; children Andrew, Caleb, Hannah, Miriam) and Adam Wheatley (wife Meredith; children Aiden and Asher), and a proud grandmother to all. She was predeceased by her parents James Ruble and Vera Elizabeth Nanney Azbill and her sisters Patricia Gayle Ringold and Janet Azbill Coffman. She is survived by her husband, sons, grandchildren, and a wide circle of family and friends whose lives she enriched with her kindness and devotion.

She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

A service to celebrate the life of Brenda Azbill Wheatley will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 11:30 am at Malesus United Methodist Church with Rev. Travis Penney and Rev. Don Carver officiating. Burial will follow in Parkburg Cemetery. Bro. Danny Rachel will officiate the committal service.

The family will receive friends beginning at 10 am at Malesus United Methodist Church, one and a half hour prior to the service.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/brenda-wheatley-12757839

02/23/2026

Mary Joan Kasprzyk Tokarski, 79, of Jackson, Tennessee, formerly of Hamden, Connecticut passed away on February 20, 2026. She was born in Derby, Connecticut on December 13, 1946 and was the daughter of the late Benjamin and Julia Gluse Kaspryzk.

Mary was a remarkable accordionist, devoted teacher, respected leader, and passionate champion of the arts whose life was defined by music, love, and generosity. A performer of exceptional expression and technical brilliance, she brought the accordion to life with warmth, elegance, and unmistakable joy. Whether on a concert stage or in an intimate gathering, Mary played from the heart, captivating audiences and honoring the instrument she cherished.

As a concert accordionist, Mary’s artistry carried her well beyond her home community. She performed abroad, sharing her musicianship with international audiences and representing the rich tradition of American accordion performance with grace and distinction.

One of the most meaningful chapters of her musical life was performing in the K Trio alongside her siblings, Walter and Julie. Performing together was not only a display of talent, but a celebration of family — siblings united by harmony, discipline, and deep affection.

As a teacher, Mary’s influence was profound and far-reaching. For decades, she mentored students of all ages, blending high expectations with encouragement, humor, and compassion. Her studio was more than a place of instruction — it was a welcoming musical home. Many of her students went on to become accomplished musicians and educators, carrying forward the love and standards she instilled in them.

Beyond her musical accomplishments, Mary found great joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments. She loved cooking and baking for family and friends, filling her home with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of meals made with care. She had a special fondness for strawberries. She also enjoyed playing cribbage and other games with family and friends, where her lively competitive spirit often emerged.

Mary leaves behind a stepson, Chris Collins (Rita) of Bolivar; three beloved grandchildren: Kristy Webb Gentry (Jody) of Middleton, Craig Collins (Candace) of Bolivar, and Kaitlyn King (Chase) of Medon; 5 great-grandchildren she adored: Brooklynn and Hudson Webb, Gage Collins, Madden and Mason King; her brothers Walter Kasprzyk (Karen) of Navarre, FL, Thomas Kasprzyk (Wanda) of Burke Burnett, TX; her brother-in-law Chris Tokarski; and special loved ones Sandra Lester (Kevin), Hunter, Harlie, and Hayleigh Lester, Andrew and Hunter Webb. Mary is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. Mary is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Tokarski, and beloved sister, Julie Cardona; along with her brother, Michael Fernino.

Mary will be remembered not only for her extraordinary musicianship and leadership, but for her generous spirit, radiant hospitality, playful competitiveness, and boundless love for her family. Her legacy lives on in every melody played by her students, in every organization she strengthened, and in the hearts of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her.

A service to celebrate the life of Mary Joan Kasprzyk Tokarski will be held on Monday, March 2, 2026 at 1 p.m. at Aldersgate Methodist Church. The family will receive friends beginning at 11 a.m., two hours prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be sent to The Mary and Frank Tokarski Musical Arts Fund, a foundation very near and dear to Mary’s heart.

https://www.cfgnh.org/articles/mary-frank-tokarski-musical-arts-fund

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/mary-kasprzyk-tokarski-12757830

02/22/2026

Roger Thomas Callis, age 74, passed away peacefully at his home on February 21, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Roger was born on March 16, 1951, in Jackson, Tennessee, to the late Fred and Mary Callis. A lifelong resident of Jackson, Roger built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. In August of 1969, he married the love of his life, Shelia Kay Johnson. Together they shared 56 wonderful years of marriage, building a strong and devoted family.

Roger was the proud owner and operator of Roger’s Rebuilders and Auto Repair in South Jackson. Through his business, he earned the trust and respect of countless customers and friends in the community. Known for his skill, honesty, and willingness to help others, Roger took great pride in his work and in serving his customers.

He and Shelia were faithful members of First Baptist Church Bemis, where they worshiped and formed many lasting friendships.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Mary Callis.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Shelia Kay Callis; his daughter, Melanie Gail Callis; his siblings, Freddie Callis and Marsha Faye Callis Munoz; and a host of extended family members and dear friends who will cherish his memory.

A service to celebrate the life of Roger Callis will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the South Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons, with burial to follow in Liberty Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 a.m., two hours prior to the service, at the funeral home.

Roger will be remembered for his steady presence, his dedication to his family, and the many lives he touched through both his work and his faith. He leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and devotion that will continue to live on in all who knew him.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/roger-callis-12757733

02/18/2026

Paul Mills Fisher, 88, of Jackson, TN passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026 surrounded by his family following a life marked by strength, kindness, and dedication to his loved ones. He was born on June 26, 1937 in Bemis, TN to the late William Benton and Acenah (Mills) Fisher.

After graduating from JB Young High School in Bemis, Paul enlisted in the United States Air Force and served in Korea. He attended Union University, where he received a bachelor of science in biology with a business minor. He managed LK Rush, co-owned Fisher Electronics with his brother George and was the owner of Old Hickory Electronics, where he proudly sold the first VCR in Jackson, TN. Paul thoroughly enjoyed working with his nephews Jeff Cooper and Ralph Fisher installing antenna towers. More recently, he delivered Thrifty Nickel papers and worked lawn care until his retirement.

Paul was a member of First Baptist Church of Bemis and Bible Grove Baptist Church of Jackson where he served as an usher. His faith was strong and he was always willing to help others without a need for recognition.

Deeply cherished were the times spent with family at the annual Fisher Family reunions held in Bemis, TN and Sand Springs, Oklahoma. Stories about fishing, growing up in Bemis, and spending time with his grandkids were among his favorite things. There wasn’t a classic movie, especially a Western, that he hadn’t watched. His children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews have many “Paul stories” to keep his humor and laughter alive.

Paul is survived by his wife, Beverly; children, Paula Peftoulidis (George) and Jason Fisher (Gina); grandchildren, Alex Peftoulidis, Blake Peftoulidis, Gaby Fisher and Jackson Fisher. He is also survived by a sister, Alice Isaac; three brothers, Bobby (Dorothy) Fisher, David (Annette) Fisher, and Ken (Susan) Fisher; and many nieces and nephews who adored him.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his siblings, William Benton Fisher Jr., Nell Jones, Betty Short, Thomas Fisher, Louise Blankenship, George Fisher, Ronald Fisher and Richard Fisher.

Visitation will be on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at George A. Smith & Sons North Jackson with a celebration of life service to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bible Grove Baptist Church of Jackson or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis.

We would like to thank the staff at the Tennessee State Veteran’s Home in Humboldt for taking such good care of our Dad and a very special thanks to our Uncle Kenny and Aunt Susan for their constant love and support for our Dad and us.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/paul-fisher-12750845

02/18/2026

Carolyn Sue Smith Alvis passed away in Jackson, Tennessee on February 14, 2026 on Valentine’s Day so she will forever be in our hearts full of love.

She was born in Tamms Illinois on November 9, 1941. The daughter of the late Ralph and Goldie Dailey Smith. Carolyn was a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished friend who dedicated her life to her family and her church.

She will be remembered for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith. Mom read her Bible every day and made sure we were raised in church. Even when dad worked nights, we were always 15 minutes late, but we were always there. She was a beautiful example of what God expected of us, and she lived it every single day without fail. She never had an unkind word to say about anyone and only saw the good. I have to say she was also feisty and funny and loved to laugh. Even if it was at our expense.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Loag Smith.

She is survived by her beloved husband, William E. Alvis of Jackson whom she was two months short of being married to for 64 years; her children, James Alvis (Beth), Cindy Alvis Davisson (Jon), and John Alvis (Denise); grandchildren, Christopher Davisson (Lauren), Logan Davisson, Lauren Alvis, Ryan Alvis (Rosalynn Jordan) and their sweet great granddaughter Kopelynn Alvis. She is also survived by her sister, June Smith Crisler.

She will be forever missed but live in our hearts forever until the Lord reunites us in Heaven. Mom is healed from Parkinson’s. She fought harder and stronger than anyone could have. If fighting could have cured this disease it would never have had a chance. She defied it every single day like a warrior!

The other half of our heart is now in Heaven reunited with her loved ones gone before. Mom, you have left a legacy in your family, and we will do our very best to honor you and be the children you raised us to be! To earn the privilege of holding you again. To make you proud in every way possible and let your love light and faith shine through us to others so they too will know the endlessly amazing mom and Christian you were.

A service to celebrate the life of Carolyn Alvis will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the North Chapel of George North Chapel of George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home Jackson Tennessee with Mike Gillespie officiating. Burial will follow at Ridgecrest Cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 a.m., two hours prior to the service.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/carolyn-alvis-12749130