West Harpeth Funeral Home & Crematory

11/24/2025

Dr. Richard Lee Prass

Dr. Richard Lee “Dick” Prass — Nashville, Tennessee

Dr. Richard Lee “Dick” Prass, MD, PhD, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025, leaving behind a legacy as a physician, inventor, and musician deeply loved by his friends, family, and colleagues.

Richard was born on October 6, 1951, in Bethesda, Maryland and raised in Dayton, Ohio. He attended Trotwood Madison High School (Class Of ’69) and was nominated as Prom King in his senior year. He received his B.S. in Biochemistry from The Ohio State University in 1973. He then moved to Cleveland and earned both his M.D. and Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve University in 1981.

He completed his internship and residency in Otolaryngology at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Subsequently he pursued a fellowship in Otology and Neurotology at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles, one of the world’s most respected centers for ear research and surgery.

Professionally, Richard served as Director of Otology and was Assistant Professor at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, VA. In 1991, he entered private practice and was Medical Director and President of Atlantic Coast Ear Specialists in Virginia Beach. His final assignment before retirement was Associate Otologist at Nashville ENT Clinic.

A pioneer in surgical technology, Richard held nine U.S. patents for devices designed to monitor nerve integrity during surgery. His innovations earned him special recognition from NASA for the Prass Probe, a precise electromechanical nerve stimulator. This tool has helped make delicate neurosurgeries safer for patients. He authored numerous publications on facial-nerve monitoring and intraoperative neurophysiology, leaving a lasting impact on his field.

All his professional accomplishments aside, Richard’s greatest gift was being a kind, humble, and wonderfully funny person. His favorite activities included gardening, fishing, watching college football (Go Bucks!), grilling, dancing, and rescuing animals. He was an avid lover, listener, and creator of music. A self-taught guitarist, Richard was also gifted with a beautiful tenor voice and had a natural knack for songwriting. During his time at Case Western, he wrote his magnum opus entitled “MD: A Folk Rock Opera”, embodying his rare blend of scientific intellect and artistic spirit.

He was preceded in death by his high school sweetheart and beloved wife of 49 years, Margaret ‘Peggy’ Prass (nee Kearney), who passed away in 2024.

He is survived by his daughter Carrie N. Schwickardt, son-in-law Markus, grandchildren William and Sophie, son Brian G. Prass, daughter Natalie J. Prass, son-in-law Eric Slick, brother Mark Prass, and sister Vickie Hartke, and parents Richard and Marjorie Prass. He was a nurturing mentor, a creative artist, and a man whose innovation and curiosity were boundless.

Condolences may be sent to West Harpeth Funeral Home, Nashville, TN. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Nashville Rescue Mission, and Alive Hospice of Nashville, Nashville Humane Association, and Alley Cat Allies.

View Dr. Richard Lee Prass's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/20/2025

Chin Doan

Mr. Chin Doan, 72, of La Vergne, Tennessee, passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. The family cordially invites relatives and friends to visit and have prayer from nine o'clock in the morning until one o'clock in the afternoon at West Harpeth Funeral Home and Crematory, 6962 Charlotte Pike in Nashville. The ceremonial cremation will immediately follow the visitation.

In lieu of customary remembrances, donations can be made to the family.

View Chin Doan's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/17/2025

We’re excited to announce that our annual calendars have arrived and are now available! Stop by and pick one up while they last.

They’re perfect for planning out the year, noting important dates, and staying organized — plus, they look great hanging in your home or office!

Swing in anytime during business hours or during visitations to grab yours. We appreciate your continued support and can’t wait to see you!

11/17/2025

Matthew Robert Gymrek

Matthew Robert Gymrek

May 3, 1988 – November 13, 2025

Matthew Robert Gymrek, age 37, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on May 3, 1988, in Munster, Indiana, Matt brought warmth, laughter, and some mischief into every life he touched.

Matt was a gentle giant with his quiet strengths and deep compassion, always ready with a kind word or a good story. His sharp wit and generous heart made him a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. Those who knew Matt will remember his love of music, his easy sense of sarcasm, and his sharp gaming skills.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Gymrek; his grandfathers, Casey H. Gymrek and John Bertram; and his grandmother, Katherine Gymrek. He leaves behind his loving family: his mother, Charyn Muraida (Raymond); his brothers and sisters, Michael Gymrek (Brittany), Dane Muraida (Athena), Casey Gymrek (Travis Smith) and Katrina Muraida; his wife, Ellen Gymrek; his grandmothers, Carol Bertram and Doreen Muraida; and his beloved nieces and nephews — Sophia, Logan, Luke, Henry, Clara, Griffin, and Graham — who adored their Uncle Matt and will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to share stories, laughter, and love in honor of Matt’s beautiful spirit.

Though his time with us was far too short, Matt’s kindness, humor, and love will continue to live on in all who were lucky enough to know him.

View Matthew Robert Gymerk's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/11/2025

Today, we take a moment to thank and honor all the brave men and women who have served our country. Your courage, sacrifice, and dedication protect the freedoms we enjoy every day.

We’d like to give a special recognition to Dave Closen, father of one of our employees, and to his children Jason Closen and Taryn Closen, for their family’s continued support and sacrifice throughout Dave’s 26 years of distinguished military service.

Dave joined the Army in February 1994 at just 19 years old and proudly served until his retirement in February 2020.

His career took him across the globe — serving in Germany, Alaska, Tennessee, Georgia, Colorado, and Mississippi, and deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia, and Kuwait. Over the years, he held multiple roles including Infantryman, Career Counselor, Combat Engineer, and Human Resources Officer.

His dedication and leadership earned him numerous awards, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (2), Army Commendation Medal (10), and Army Achievement Medal (6).

A message from his son Jason: "Thank you for your service and for being the best dad."

A message from his daughter Taryn: "Dad, you truly are one of the biggest heroes. Thank you for not only protecting Jason and I but also our country. You are the best dad a girl could ask for. Happy Veterans Day. I love you!"

Please join us in thanking Dave — and all veterans — for their remarkable service and sacrifice. 🇺🇸❤️

11/10/2025

What a night to brave the cold and a few snow flakes to support our friends in West Nashville and the Bellevue community at The Taste of Bellevue! We voted for our fan favorite and can't wait to see the results!

11/05/2025

Terri Downing Trichel

Terri Downing Trichel, age sixty-three, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at home on November 4, 2025, surrounded by her family after a tenacious battle with cancer.

Born on July 27, 1962, in Humboldt, Tennessee, Terri graduated from Humboldt High School in 1980 and went on to earn both a Bachelor of Science and Master of Audiology from the University of Mississippi.

Alongside her husband, Scott, Terri lived, worked, and raised her family in several areas of the United States before finally settling down in Nashville in 2005.

Even after receiving a diagnosis of endometrial serous carcinoma in 2021, she refused to give up and lived every moment to the fullest. Over the past four years, she traveled all across the country, relaxed on the lake with her family and beloved pets, cooked her family’s favorite meals, oversaw a home renovation, read Debbie Macomber books, made memories with old and new friends, and more, all while putting up a strong battle against cancer.

Terri is preceded in death by her parents, Martha Trimmer Downing and Duane Downing. She is survived by her husband of 30 years: Scott Trichel; four children: Tiffany Trichel Bolton (Shannon) of Provencal, LA, Nick Trichel (Shayne) of League City, TX, Emma Trichel of Nashville, TN, and Caroline Trichel, of Nashville, TN; one brother: Gregg Downing of New Orleans, LA; six grandchildren: Dayton Trichel (Rachael), Ella Jones, Skylar Bolton, Maegan Bolton, Waylon Bolton, and Madi Trichel; one nephew: Vin Downing; one niece: Presley Downing; and two great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held at the First Presbyterian Church inside the Cheek House on Franklin Pike in Nashville on Friday, November 7th, between 4:00 and 6:00 PM. At 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 8th, a funeral will be held at the Church at Sugar Creek in Humboldt, TN, with a visitation beginning an hour beforehand.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her honor to a cancer organization of one’s choosing.

View Terri Downing Trichel's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/03/2025

Janice R. Edens

Janice R. “Jan” Worsham Edens, age 55, of Lebanon, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025. She was a devoted wife, loving stepmom, cherished Nana, and a wonderful sister and aunt.

Born on November 3, 1969, to Sherman and Lavone Worsham, Jan was the apple of their eye—arriving several years after her beloved siblings, Judy and Jerry.

On June 24, 1995, Jan married the love of her life, Jim Edens. She lovingly embraced his sons, J.R. and Jason, as her own. Together, Jan and Jim built a warm and welcoming home where family and friends always felt at ease. Whether gathered on the back porch or celebrating special occasions, Jan’s joy was found in opening her home and heart to others.

Jan graduated from Springfield High School in 1988, where she formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. She began her career as a dental assistant, working in dental offices and assisting in surgeries. Later, she fulfilled a dream of helping brides find their perfect gown through her bridal shop, Sugar Drop, in Brentwood. Toward the end of her career, Jan met her dear friend “Mrs. Daisy” while helping with catering—a friendship that became truly special to her.

Jan had a gift for making everyone feel like family. She loved her friends deeply and treasured every girls’ trip, whether it was a getaway to the beach or a peaceful weekend at the lake. Her laughter, kindness, and love for life touched everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her stepson, Spc. Jason Edens, and by her parents, Sherman and Lavone Worsham.

Jan is survived by her devoted husband of 30 years, James (Jim) Edens; stepson J.R. Edens (Ashley); granddaughters Annalie and Rhema; sister Judy Gregory (Cliff); brother Jerry Worsham (Pam); and many loving nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 5, 2025, from 4:00–8:00 PM, and Thursday from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 12:30 PM at Harpeth West Funeral Home (6962 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209). The funeral service will be officiated by Pastor Barry Smith, with interment following at Harpeth Hills Memorial Gardens (909 Highway 100, Nashville, TN 37221).

Pallbearers will be Marshall Moore, Michael Cowles, Allen Mayes, Mike Lister, David Mills, Michael Baldwin, and Josh Smith.

If you would like to make a donation on her behalf, you can donate to the TN Fisher House in Murfreesboro, TN.

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10/29/2025

Hal Grady Zang

Hal Grady Zang, 65, passed away on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. He was born on May 11, 1960. Arrangements have been entrusted to West Harpeth Funeral Home and Crematory, 6962 Charlottle Pike in Nashville. All services are private at this time.

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10/23/2025

What a way to honor Mr. Jim Cripps! We had such an amazing service and a procession of not only Jim's classic cars but so many from his veteran friends all to celebrate an amazing man.

10/22/2025

Spencer Clack Grooms

Spencer Clack Grooms, age 78, passed away after a short illness at St. Thomas Hospital. Spencer is survived by his wife Lynn and four children – Stacey, Nathan, Timothy, and Aaron. Before retiring, Spencer worked as a cartographer and later as a draftsman, but at home he was a craftsman. He turned a rough cedar chest into beautiful wooden boxes and had an eye for detail and beauty in whatever he made. Spencer was active until the last few weeks of his life with his regular park walking and projects around the home. Always a wonderful example of patience, kindness, and generosity, Spencer will be profoundly missed.

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