George A. Smith and Sons Funeral Home

02/04/2026

PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE OF DATE AND TIME FOR THE SERVICES OF BRO. BILL LUTHER

PLEASE NOT THE CHANGE OF SERVICE DATE AND TIME BELOW

Bro. Bill Luther, age 81 of Jackson, TN, passed away on January 29, 2026 in Jackson.

Bill was a longtime pastor in the United Pentecostal Church, most known for his associations with Love and Truth Church and the former Bemis Pentecostal Church.

Bill, and his beloved wife, Mrs. Ann, were greeters and hosts for George A. Smith and Sons Funeral Home for many years. Bill and Ann also served on the board for Madison County Blue Strong, a cause that they were both very passionate about.

A complete obituary will be forthcoming.

A service to celebrate the life of Bro. Bill Luther will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Love and Truth Church, 565 Oil Well Rd., Jackson, with burial following in Highland Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:30 a.m., an hour and a half prior to the service at Love and Truth.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/bro-bill-luther-12729899

02/03/2026

Patricia Ann Collins, age 90, passed away on February 2, 2026, in Jackson, Tennessee. She was born on November 26, 1935, in Madison County, Tennessee.

Patricia was a devoted surgical nurse at Jackson Madison County General Hospital, where she faithfully served patients and colleagues for 20 years before retiring. Nursing was more than a career to her—it was a calling rooted in compassion, steadiness, and care.

Outside of work, Patricia found joy in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. She loved bowling, sewing—often making her children’s clothes with care and pride—scrapbooking treasured memories, and traveling to the beach, where she found peace and happiness by the water. Her creativity, kindness, and dedication to her family were evident in all she did.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Neely Bruce Collins, who passed away in 2007; her daughter, Debra Leech; her parents, George and Nell Bray Collins; and her brother, Donnie Collins.

She is survived by her children, Teresa Evans, Kevin Collins, and Leila Blake (Mark); her son-in-law, Ronnie Leech, Sr.; her grandchildren, Ryan Collins (Devin), Jenna Collins (Brent Sherrod), Dustin Evans (Brittany), Ronnie Leech, Jr. (Tara), Randall Leech (Kourtney), Lindsey Collins, and Colin Flanagan; eleven great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Margaret Belkin, Dale McMurtrey, and Sandy Kirby (Dennis).

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate care and support.

A service to celebrate the life of Patricia Collins will be held on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the South Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons, with burial to follow in Maple Springs Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Monday beginning at 11:00 a.m., two hours prior to the service, at the funeral home.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/patricia-collins-12731654

01/31/2026

Today we honor the life and legacy of Pastor Bill Luther.

Pastor Bill was a giant in the faith, a faithful servant of God, and a man of deep honor and integrity. His life was marked by devotion to ministry, leadership, and people. He advanced the Kingdom of God, and the seeds he sowed will continue to bear fruit for generations to come.

We are grateful for the impact he made, the lives he touched, and the example he set. We honor this man in life and in death, and we rejoice knowing his legacy lives on.

A service to celebrate the life and legacy of Pastor Bill Luther will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 12:00pm at Love & Truth Church, 565 Oil Well Rd., Jackson, TN. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00am, two hours prior to the service, at Love & Truth Church.

Please continue to keep the Luther family in your prayers during this time.

Full obituary and service details can be found here:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18HEz2dveu/?mibextid=wwXIfr

01/30/2026

PLEASE NOT THE CHANGE OF SERVICE DATE AND TIME BELOW

Bro. Bill Luther, age 81 of Jackson, TN, passed away on January 29, 2026 in Jackson.

Bill was a longtime pastor in the United Pentecostal Church, most known for his associations with Love and Truth Church and the former Bemis Pentecostal Church.

Bill, and his beloved wife, Mrs. Ann, were greeters and hosts for George A. Smith and Sons Funeral Home for many years. Bill and Ann also served on the board for Madison County Blue Strong, a cause that they were both very passionate about.

A complete obituary will be forthcoming.

A service to celebrate the life of Bro. Bill Luther will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Love and Truth Church, 565 Oil Well Rd., Jackson, with burial following in Highland Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:30 a.m., an hour and a half prior to the service at Love and Truth.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/bro-bill-luther-12729899

01/30/2026

Michael E. Taylor, lovingly known as Mike, was born on September 26, 1955, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and passed away on January 26, 2026, in Jackson, Tennessee.

Mike married the love of his life, Lark Stockard Taylor, on April 23, 1983, in a ceremony officiated by his favorite uncle, Dr. Morris Taylor. Their marriage was a testament to love, devotion, and partnership.

A gifted athlete and scholar, Mike attended Mississippi State University on a full scholarship. He proudly wore number 47 on defense for the Bulldogs and was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. His dedication, leadership, and character followed him throughout his life.

Mike was a faithful and active member and elder at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, Tennessee, where his service and commitment reflected his deep faith. Professionally, he dedicated 30 years to Monsanto, retiring after a distinguished career and earning the prestigious Global Master Salesman Award five times — an honor that reflected both his excellence and integrity.

Above all else, Mike would want to be remembered for the immense love he had for his grandson, Jack. For 18 years, Mike devoted his heart and time to helping raise him. From backyard baseball games and mini-golf adventures to late nights of homework and shared vanilla milkshakes, every moment was cherished. Known lovingly as “Bubby,” Mike and Jack were inseparable. His love for Jack was unconditional and endless—Jack was truly his pride and joy.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, John and Marjorie McClendon Taylor, of Canton, Mississippi.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Lark Taylor; his beautiful daughter, Ana Taylor; his beloved grandson, Jack Taylor Lawrence; his nieces, Polly Robison (Philip) and Paige Jordan (Mark); his brother-in-law, Paul Wooten; his sister-in-law, Terri Packer Robinson and his first cousin, Jane Foster.

Visitation will be held at George A. Smith and Sons North Chapel on Thursday, February 5, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be Friday, February 6, at 11:00 a.m., with committal to follow at Ridgecrest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 1573 N. Highland Avenue, Jackson, Tennessee 38301.

01/29/2026

Patrick Scott Gullett, age 45, of Jackson, Tennessee, was born on July 23, 1980, and passed away on January 27, 2026.

Patrick lived life with passion and heart. He played baseball throughout his life and was a devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. He had a deep love for muscle cars and always dreamed of owning a Shelby GT 500. Whether he was firing up the grill, cheering on his favorite team, or enjoying a good game, Patrick found joy in the simple moments.

Above all, Patrick cherished his family. He especially loved spending time with his son, Jaden, playing video games and making memories together. Jaden was the center of his world, and Patrick’s love for him was immeasurable.

Patrick was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Wayne Gullett, and his sister, Terri Love.

He is survived by the love of his life, Amanda Smith; his beloved son, Jaden Gullett; his beautiful mother, Margie; his sisters, Delana Spann and Jessica Gullett; and his brothers, Joseph Wayne Gullett Jr. (Vikki) and Larry Anthony Gullett (Melanie).

Visitation will be held at George A. Smith and Sons South Chapel on Tuesday, February 3, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m., with committal to follow at Beech Bluff Cemetery.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/patrick-gullett-12727980

01/29/2026

‘Ms. Jean’, as she was affectionately known, was promoted to glory at the age of 88 on January 29, 2026. She was born on May 19, 1937, in Hickory, N.C. to James Alec Franklin and Myrtle Jane Mace Franklin. Jean was the youngest of eight children and her siblings and parents all preceded her in death.

Once she graduated from Hickory High School in 1955, Jean moved to Jackson, TN where one of her brothers was living and she remained in Jackson for the duration of her life. She attended West Tennessee Business College where through a mutual friend and on a blind date, Jean met and married the love of her life, Bergie E. Ervin, Jr., on December 23, 1956. They were married just four months shy of 50 years until his death in August 2006.

Jean is survived by her two children LaVonda ‘Vonnie’ E. Wiggins (Ray) and Bergie ‘Ed’ Ervin, III, two grandchildren Jonathan Dean Wiggins and Jordan Franklin Wiggins, along with one precious great granddaughter, Ella Avery Wiggins. In addition to her immediate family, Jean leaves Bergie’s brother Jere Ervin (Linda) and their two children Jeff Ervin (Julie) and Suzanne Smothers (Grant) and their two children Mann and Murphey Smothers. She also leaves a host of dearly loved nieces and nephews.

A devoted member of East Union Baptist Church, Jean lived a life defined by love, generosity, and faith. She found her greatest joy in teaching two- and three-year-olds in Sunday School. Jean believed that the younger you begin to instill a love for Jesus and his church, the easier it would be for children to develop faith. Jean was still teaching Sunday School at the age of 83 when she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2020. Several generations of children continue to remember ‘Ms. Jean’ as she wrote them weekly cards teaching them to always be thankful for everything. Jean was also employed for 14 years with Oakley Fashions and 22 years with Quaker Oats, both in Jackson, making lifelong endearing relationships at each workplace.

The family would like to express sincere gratitude to West Tennessee Healthcare Hospice and especially to a devoted friend and caregiver, Cheryl Fuller, who is now a part of our family. Cheryl cared for Jean daily throughout the last two months of her life, making her transition so much easier. She truly exemplified the meaning of ministry.

We plan to celebrate her life and honor her memory with a church service to be held at East Union Baptist Church on Sunday February 8, 2026, at 1:00 pm. Visitation with family and friends will be located at George A. Smith & Sons North Chapel on Saturday February 7, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. You may donate to East Union Baptist Church, the charity of your choice, or send flowers. Mother adored every flower God allowed her to grow and she truly had a ‘green thumb’.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/revonda-jean-ervin-12728683

01/26/2026

Jerry Fisher Ellis, age 92, of Pinson, peacefully passed away on January 25, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on November 15, 1933, Jerry was the son of Leonard and Vera Ellis. He grew up alongside his brother, Bobby Ellis (wife Jeanie), and his sister, Wanna Martin (husband Pepper), both of whom preceded him in death.

A proud graduate of Pinson High School, Jerry began his career with the GM&O Railroad at the age of 16 and devoted 46 years of faithful service before retiring. On June 1, 1954, he married the love of his life, Becky Jean Lowrance. Together, they raised two daughters, Teresa Eubanks (Alan) and Anita Tucker (Don).

Jerry’s legacy continues through his four grandchildren, Beth Stigall, Teri Miller (TC), Julie Gordon (Ben), and Mimi Dill (Lucas), and his seven great-grandchildren, Luke Stigall, Hope Stigall, Macy Miller, Lane Gordon, Tucker Gordon, Raylan Dill, and Faith Dill.

Jerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a dedicated member of Pinson United Methodist Church, where he served in many capacities throughout the years. He was also an active member of the Pinson Ruritan Club, holding numerous leadership roles at both the local and national levels, including serving as President of Ruritan National. Jerry was an enthusiastic supporter of his children’s and grandchildren’s athletic and professional pursuits and was always present to cheer them on.

In addition, he was a longtime member of Woodland Hills Golf and Country Club, where he enjoyed many years of friendship and time on the golf course.

Visitation will be held at George A. Smith & Sons South Chapel on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., and again on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the funeral service to follow. Burial will be at Ridgecrest Cemetery in Jackson, Tennessee.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Tennessee Quality Hospice for their compassionate care and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or online at http://bit.ly/4a1OE7N.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/jerry-ellis-12722372

01/26/2026

Dr. John Richard Kirkland, age 82, passed away on January 23, 2026. He was born on May 19, 1943, in Union City, Tennessee, the third of four brothers who shared a lifelong bond of love and loyalty.

John was a proud Union City Tornado, playing running back for his high school football team, and he was also voted Best Dressed, a distinction that reflected his lifelong appreciation for style. In his younger years, he worked alongside family at his father’s Kirkland’s Clothing Store and his uncle’s Dixie Gun Works, experiences that helped shape his strong work ethic and love for tradition.

John went on to graduate from Memphis State University, where he was a member of the SAE Fraternity, and later earned his doctorate from Southern College of Optometry. He served his country with honor as a Captain in the United States Air Force. An excellent marksman, John had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and greatly enjoyed hunting and fishing. He found joy in simple pleasures—taking the houseboat out on the Tennessee River, driving the tractor, and riding the golf cart with his beloved wife.

A lifelong seeker of knowledge, John had a deep curiosity and passion for science, history, and military studies. Above all else, he cherished his family and loved them dearly.

John was preceded in death by his father, Carlyle Kirkland; his mother, Lee Nell Kelley Kirkland; and his brother, Kenneth Kirkland.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Charlotte Kirkland; his cherished daughter, Kelley Kirkland Rowland (Joe); and his treasured granddaughters, Mary Virginia Rowland and Meredith Rowland. He is also survived by his stepsons, Justin Gatley (Bri) and Josh Gatley (Amber), and four step-grandchildren. Additional survivors include his brothers, Carl Kirkland (Alice) and Russ Kirkland (Carey Ann), along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is also survived by his mother in law, Polly Darnall (Mike).

A service to celebrate the life of Dr. John Kirkland will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 1:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Ridgecrest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Kirkland Cancer Center.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/jackson-tn/dr-john-kirkland-12722365

01/26/2026

Our offices will be closed today, January 26, 2026 for the safety of our staff. If you need us, please call us at (731) 427-5555. Our staff stands by to assist you! Thank you for your understanding.

01/26/2026

Mr. Jerry Fisher Ellis, age 92 of Pinson, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026 at his home surrounded by family.

Mr. Ellis, a pillar of the Pinson community, is the beloved husband of Mrs. Becky Lowrance Ellis; the father of Anita Ellis Tucker (Don) and Teresa Ellis Eubanks (Alan); the grandfather of Beth Stigall, Teri Miller, Julie Gordon, and Mimi Dill; and the great grandfather of Lane Gordon, Tucker Gordon, Raylan Dill, Faith Dill, Luke Stigall, Hope Stigall, and Macy Miller.

A service to celebrate the life of Mr. Jerry Ellis will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the South Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons. Burial will follow in Ridgecrest Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday evening, January 30, 2026 from 4-7 pm and again on Saturday from 11-1 at the funeral home.

01/24/2026

Dr. John Richard Kirkland, age 82 of Jackson, passed away on January 23, 2026 in Jackson.

Mr. Kirkland, a retired Doctor of Optometry, was the beloved husband of Charlotte Kirkland, father of Kelley Rowland (Joe), and the brother of Carl Kirkland (Alice) and Russ Kirkland (Carey Ann).

Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced when they are finalized.