Jan. 11, 2013
The following obituaries were taken from various online sources during the 2012 calendar year.
Eugene Boeke, Jr. was born 7 October 1925 in Birmingham, AL, to Lillian Rogers Boeke and Eugene Boeke, Sr. He followed his father as an officer of Beers Construction Company. In 1951 he married Joy Weller, his partner for 61 years. He died September 29th at North Fulton Hospital. Gene Boeke played tackle for North Fulton High School and served with the U.S. Army Engineers in France during World War II. A basketball letterman, Boeke graduated from Georgia Tech in 1949 and was a life long active alumnus. He supervised construction of Piedmont Hospital, 191 Peachtree Towers, the Coca Cola International Headquarters, and dozens of other buildings in the Southeast. Beyond family and friends, his three passions were concrete, gardening, and the boy scouts. Gene Boeke was a nationally recognized expert in reinforced concrete construction, a Fellow of the America Concrete Institute, and served as an expert witness in arbitration. A Vice President of the American Society of Concrete Construction (ASCC), in 1992, he was honored with the ASCC Lifetime Achievement Award, “For a lifetime committed to the advance of the concrete construction industry.” “Gene” was a founder and a President of the Buckhead Men’s Garden Club. He was a President of the Georgia Dahlia Society, and active in the American Dahlia Society. Many neighbors enjoyed his flowers, corn, beans and tomatoes. On moving to Big Canoe he served on Architectural Control, and on the Grounds Committee of the Chapel. An Eagle Scout, he served as scoutmaster for the Second Ponce de Leon Baptist Church, and later for the Trinity Presbyterian Church. For his service to scouting he was given the Silver Beaver Award by the Atlanta Boy Scout Council. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Joy Weller Boeke, his brother, Richard and wife, Johanna. Nieces Elinore Boeke, Diana Boeke, Mary Lou O’Shea, Kimmy Dubose. Nephews Charles S. Weller, Jr., Frank Weller III. Eugene Boeke, Jr, was a member of Second Ponce de Leon Baptist Church and Big Canoe Chapel. A memorial service will be held at Big Canoe Chapel on his 87th Birthday, Sunday, 7 October 2012 at 2 PM. In Lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to either the Big Canoe Chapel or to the Atlanta Boy Scout Council. Published in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on October 3, 2012.
J. Luke Bowen (James Lucien Bowen), IM 1948, passed away on June, 23, 2012. Mr. Bowen, a four-year varsity football letterman (1944-1947), was Secretary of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity at Tech. He served in the U.S. Naval Air Force and enjoyed music and fishing. Source: Georgia Tech Living History, www.living history.gatech.edu.
Robert E. “Bob” Brooks, 83, a resident of High Point, NC since 1984, died August 12th at Hospice Home at High Point. A Georgia native, Bob was born October 13th, 1928 in Atlanta, Georgia a son to the late Henry Harrison and Nancy Vera Bettington Brooks. He received degrees in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from Georgia Tech and lettered in Track & Cross Country. Highly respected in the chemical industry, Bob worked for High Point Chemical Company and retired from Burlington Chemicals. Surviving are his wife of thirty three years, Julia Eby Brooks of the home; his sister, Harriett Laurens of Atlanta, Georgia and nieces, Carol Laurens, Jan Mitchell and Susan Cheshire. Published in News Record on August 14, 2012.
Joseph Edward Brown, 87, of Norcross, GA, died October 22, 2012. The memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 25th, at Dunwoody Baptist Church. A private interment will be held at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA. Mr. Brown, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, retired from Dubois Chemical Company. He was a graduate of Georgia Tech where he played football. He was a former president of the GA Tech Football Lettermen’s Club, a member and former president of the Berkeley Hills Golf Club. He is survived by his wife, Beverly Brown of Norcross; son and daughter-in-law, Joe & Susan Brown of Alpharetta; daughter, Susanne Hertzler of Alpharetta; and five grandchildren, Jacob Hertzler, Kerren Hertzler, Lauren Brown, Joe Brown, III, and David Brown. Published in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on October 25, 2012.
James Anthony Carlen III, born July 11, 1933 in Cookeville, TN, was a son of the late James A. and Roberta Hill Carlen and a proud Eagle Scout. He graduated from Georgia Tech where he was a linebacker and punter on two national championship teams under Coach Dodd. After graduating from Georgia Tech and serving one season as an assistant coach at Cookeville Central High, he served in the U.S. Air Force for four years where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant. He then began his college football coaching career at Georgia Tech as assistant to Coach Bobby Dodd, defensive coordinator and later as college athletics director. His coaching stints included Georgia Tech, West Virginia, Texas Tech and South Carolina. At these three universities, Carlen attained a 107-69-6 record. Carlen guided the Mountaineers from 1966-69 to a 25-13-3 record. In 1969, after leading the Mountaineers to a 10-1 record, which included a 14-3 victory over South Carolina in the Peach Bowl, he then went to Texas Tech from 1970-74. The Red Raiders were 37-20-2 under Carlen’s reign. In 1973, he guided the Red Raiders to one of their most successful seasons ever with an 11-1 campaign. He was selected Southwest Conference Coach of the Year for the second time, NCAA District Seven Coach of the Year and Fellowship of Christian Athletes Coach of the Year. From 1975-1981, Carlen led the University of South Carolina to a 46-36-1 record, which included two eight-win seasons and three bowl trips. The 45 victories are the third most in South Carolina football history by a head coach. Carlen also coached the school’s only Heisman Trophy winner, George Rogers. In addition to being the school’s football head coach, he also served as the school’s athletics director until 1981. To add to Carlen’s long list of awards, former South Carolina Governor James B. Edwards presented Carlen with the Order of the Palmetto, one of the highest awards that can be given to a resident of the state of South Carolina. In 2006, he was inducted into the S.C. Hall of Fame. He was also inducted into the Cookeville High School Hall of Fame in 2007 and the National Football Foundation and College of Fame in 2008. Also in 2008, Carlen was inducted into the Texas Tech Athletic Hall of Honor. He was recognized by the West Virginia University Fellowship of Christian Athletes for his numerous contributions and also received the Honorary West Virginian Award in 2009. Coach Carlen touched many lives, including his countless players, staff and friends as he continued to provide love, support and guidance throughout their lives. His commitment and dedication was evident after their playing careers as he continued to serve as a mentor and a coach for life. Surviving are his wife, Meredith Taylor Carlen; sons, James Anthony Carlen IV (Kim) of Columbia, William Holt Carlen of Columbia; daughters, Mollianne Elliott (Joe) of Roswell, Ga., Melanie Caswell of Columbia; brother, Walter Hill Carlen of Cookeville, Tenn.; twelve grandchildren, Jimmy, Maggie and Knox Carlen; Carlen Arnold; Harrison, Hill and Evans Elliott; Garner Leigh, Davis Brooke, Jamie Keith, Abbey Hill and Claxton Grace Caswell. The family wishes to thank the staff of Tidewater Hospice, especially Cindy, Joanie, Ivey and Meva, for their compassion and excellent care and support. Published in The State from July 23 to July 24, 2012.
Jess M. Carroll, 78, of Massillon went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 4, 2012 while surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 2, 1934 in Martins Ferry to the late Thomas and Anne Carroll, Jess was a 1953 graduate of Martins Ferry High School and a 1957 graduate of Georgia Institute of Technology where he lettered in basketball. He was employed at Republic steel for 34 years, was active in ISO 9000 Consulting and SCORE, was an avid golfer and enjoyed basketball but, most of all he enjoyed his time as a loving husband, father and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Carole A. (Fitzsimmons); sons, J. Michael (Barbra) Carroll Jr. of Decatur, Alabama, Dan (Susan) Carroll of Westlake, Patrick F. Carroll of Massillon and Thomas H. (Melissa) Carroll of Fallsington, PA; grandchildren, James, Ashley, T. Joseph, Anne, Tom and Katie; sister, Delores McIlvain of Columbus and brother, Thomas A. Carroll of Martins Ferry. Published in The Repository on April 5, 2012.
Benjamin Troy Daugherty, 78, passed away Friday, January 6, 2012, from pneumonia. A native of Bowling Green, Kentucky, Ben attended Bowling Green High, where he was a member of the All State football team. After graduation, Ben attended Georgia Tech on a football scholarship from 1952-1955, where he played on the 1952 National Championship team and was an All American Mention in 1955. Upon graduating from Georgia Tech, Ben served in the Air Force as a pilot. Upon leaving the Air Force, he went to work for Robinson Humphries from 1959 to 1968, leaving to go in the real estate business. Ben later became a tax assessor for Walton and Gwinnett counties. Ben loved the outdoors and the farm where he raised German short haired pointers and Doberman pinschers, as well as grew vegetables. Ben is survived by his wife on nine years, Mildred Daughtery; his children, Alan Daughtery, Kathy Allen, and Chris Daughtery; his four grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at Peachtree Presbyterian Church’s Kellett Chapel on Wednesday, January 11th at 2:00 P.M. The family will visit with family and friends after the service. Those wishing to give contributions, in lieu of flowers, may offer a contribution to St. Jude’s Children Hospital at 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org. Meadows Funeral Home, Inc. of Monroe is in charge of arrangements. Published in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution from January 9 to January 10, 2012.
Robert E. “Bob” Eskew, 90, died on Saturday, February 11, 2012 at his home in Presbyterian Village in Austell, GA. Bob concluded his life as he lived it: with faith and optimism, surrounded by family and friends for whom he remained a calming presence and source of strength. Born in Lebanon, Tennessee, he moved to Atlanta as a boy and devoted a lifetime to building and bettering the city he loved. At 17 he climbed out onto a ledge at the Georgian Terrace Hotel to get a glimpse of movie stars arriving for the 1939 premiere of Gone With The Wind. He recalled actress Ann Rutherford “looking up at us with her beautiful brown eyes and saying, ‘Aren’t you afraid of falling?'” He graduated in 1940 from Boy’s High and served for many years as president of the BHS Alumni Association. He studied Business Administration at the University of Tennessee for two years before transferring to Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, where he graduated in 1949, obtained his Masters Degree in Industrial Engineering in 1955, and served on the faculty for nineteen years including seven years as a Business Manager and Treasurer of the Georgia Tech Athletic Association. He was a former trustee of the Georgia Tech Alumni Association and a fiercely devoted fan of the Yellow Jackets. On Saturday, February 11, Bob’s family entertained him at his bedside with a rendition of Ramblin’ Wreck from Georgia Tech. While at the GTAA, Bob had design and construction responsibilities for upper deck additions at Georgia Tech’s Bobby Dodd Stadium, which later led to his career as Vice President in charge of the sports facility design group at Heery International for 25 years. At Heery, he participated in over a hundred collegiate and professional stadium/ arena projects in the U.S. and around the world. He also managed a feasibility study for air conditioning at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, and was Contracting Officer for the MARTA Five Points Rapid Rail Transit Station in Atlanta. He retired from Heery in 1993 after securing the Georgia Dome design commission. Earlier in his professional career, Bob served as Southeast Regional Director for the Institute of International Education, was a Vice President at Callaway Gardens, held positions at Smith-Raymond Company and Swift Construction Company in Columbus, GA. He was a layout draftsman for the B-29 bomber at Bell Aircraft Corporation in Marietta, GA during WWII, where he met his future bride. Bob’s “retirement” from industry was a transition into an equally active civic and philanthropic career, built around his Christian faith, his humanitarian ideals, his love of sports, and his belief in the positive power of business and commerce. He served on the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity, and was a Trustee for Presbyterian Homes of Georgia. He was instrumental in the development of the Atlanta Ministry for International Students. He was Executive Director of The Blue Ridge Conference for Leadership; a Life Member of the American Institute of Industrial Engineers, and was active with the United Way, USO, Arthritis Foundation, Multiple Sclerosis Society, and The Friendship Force. He was a Presbyterian Elder, served on the Atlanta Presbytery Council, and was Clerk of Session at the First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta. Published in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on February 15, 2012.
Floyd Steele Faucette, 75, of Windermere, FL passed away on October 11, 2012. He was born in Brent, Alabama to William & Lucille Faucette. A graduate of Bachelor degree in mechanical engineer from Georgia Tech, 1959 & Master degree in business administration from Rollins College in 1967, he served in the US Army as First Lieutenant Artillery from 1960 – 1966. During his education at Georgia Tech he led them as a quarterback and halfback to the Sugar Bowl in 1956 and the Gator Bowl in 1959, he was influential in the early development of downtown Orlando, he was an avid golfer and he enjoyed puttering around with a 1946 Willys Jeep. Survivors include his wife of twenty-eight years, Susan H. Faucette; children, Eva Marie Zelesky and William Randall Faucette; step-children, Christina Marie Scott and Michelle Duryea Harrison; brother, William B. Faucette Jr.; grandchildren, Zachary Alan Zelesky, Samuel Nathan Zelesky, Sadie Alexandra Faucette, Hannah Grace Faucette, Isaac Steele Faucette, Ella Marie Ristorcelli, Cali Lynn Ristorcelli and Kylee Ann Harrison. Published online courtesy of Woodlawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home.
Paul Douglas Ford, 46, son of James and Jacqueline Ford of Carlisle, PA passed away suddenly on Friday, October 12, 2012 in San Francisco, CA. Doug was born December 1, 1965 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He was preceded in death by an infant son, Grant on March 2, 2010. He was a graduate of Marlboro High School in Marlboro, NJ. He earned his Undergraduate and Master’s Degrees from Georgia Institute of Technology where he was a manager for the football team. He was Vice President of National Accounts & Business Development for Rocket Dog Footwear located in San Francisco, CA. In addition to his parents Doug is survived by two brothers, Jim of Elgin, IL and Steve and his wife Rosa of Mount Joy, PA; two nieces, Kaylee and Emma; four nephews, Wilson, Patrick, James (JJ) and Shane; and four godchildren. Published in Patriot-News on October 25, 2012.
Richard B. Gibney, Jr. of Yardley, PA died on Wednesday, November 7, 2012. He was 58. Born in Philadelphia, Rick has been a life long resident of Lower Bucks County. A 1972 graduate of Bishop Egan High School and a 1976 graduate of Georgia Tech University, Rick had a passion for football and played on various teams including Bishop Egan and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. After graduating, he was drafted by the Baltimore Colts. Rick spent his career building his own company and traveling the world as a business consultant. He loved to spend time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren. Rick was the loving father of Katherine M. Wilkins and Sarah L. Gibney and the devoted grandfather of Noah and Chloe Wilkins. He was the beloved son of Richard B., Sr. and Marguerite A. (Cliggett) Gibney. He will also be sadly missed by his brothers Daniel T. (Susan) and Michael J.; his sisters Maureen Lees (Michael) and Jacquie Medaglia; his loving partner and best friend Jennifer Safran; and his nieces and nephews Dan Gibney, Colleen (Mike) Meehan, Tim and Shane Nolte and Alex and Samantha Medaglia. Published online on November 9, 2012 courtesy of James J. Dougherty Funeral Home Inc. – Levittown.
James Allen Hale, 85, of Roswell, GA passed away Tuesday September 4, 2012. Jim was born in Atlanta, GA and graduated from Tech High School in 1945. While in high school Jim achieved five varsity letters. Jim’s passion in high school was baseball. After high school, Jim was inducted into the army where he served post World War II in Germany. Following his discharge from the army, Jim entered Georgia Tech in 1947 where he lettered in baseball and graduated in 1950, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering. Following graduation from Georgia Tech, Jim began his career with Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Gadsden, AL. While living in Gadsden, Jim played on the Company baseball team and traveled every weekend to Atlanta to visit family and court his future bride, Martha Bryan. A year later, Jim accepted a position as Sales Manager with Atlanta Tires in Atlanta, GA. Jim married Martha on June 16, 1951. In 1954, Jim started his career with Ohio Chemical and Surgical Equipment. Upon his retirement in 1993, Jim turned his passion for travel into a part-time business. After working with several travel agencies, he founded Jim Hale Travel Agency which specialized in international golfing trips and luxury cruises. Jim had many interests including golf, travel, Georgia Tech sporting events, monthly outings with the Fourth Quarter Club, and spending time with family and his many, many life long friends. Jim was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. While his friendships and accomplishments were many, Jim’s greatest display of love, faith, care and devotion was that shown to Martha, his beloved wife, during a lengthy illness. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Martha Hale, his parents and two sisters. Jim has three children and their families. Susan Hale Lester and her husband Charles Lester of Tallahassee, FL; Carol Hale Connelly and her husband John Connelly of Brentwood TN; Michael Hale and his wife Stacy King Hale of Powder Springs, GA and six grandchildren. Published online courtesy of Dignity Memorial, Sandy Springs Chapel.
Robert L. Hale, IM 53, of Irmo, S.C., passed away on June 12, 2012. Robert served in the Navy in World War II. Robert lettered in baseball at Georgia Tech.
Willam Zane Harper, born in 1923 in Villa Rica, Georgia, was the son of George and Nellie Harper. He graduated from Georgia Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, lettered at Georgia Tech in baseball, and was a member of the Naval Officer Training Program. Upon graduation Lt. JG Harper began a tour of duty in the Pacific Theater during WWII on the destroyer USS John D. Henley. He and Jean Elizabeth Satterwhite were married in October 1945. During a 40-year career at Eastman Kodak he attended Harvard University’s Advanced Management Program and retired in 1986 as Manager of Facilities at Kodak Park. Bill Harper was a member of the US Naval Reserve, and served two years during the Korean Conflict on the USS Kimberly as the Engineering Officer. He retired after 20 years with the rank of Commander. A resident of Brighton since 1953, Mr. Harper served for seven years on the Brighton Central Schools Board of Education and was its President for four years. He was a long-time member and past president of Monroe Golf Club. He served for five years as a technical advisor to the Rochester District Heating Board and was a member of the RIT Institute of Fellows. Bill Harper was a longtime member of the Twelve Corners Presbyterian Church, and in more recent years, attended the First Baptist Church of Rochester. Mr. Harper was pre-deceased by his parents, his brother, four sisters, and his son, William Todd Harper. He is survived by his wife, Jean Satterwhite Harper, a son, Gregory R. Harper (Lorraine Prince) of Allentown, PA., a daughter, Kristin R. Harper (Bonnie Dawkins) of Oyster Bay, NY, two grandchildren, Jessica Todd Harper (Christopher Zafiriou) of Merion Station, PA, and Rebecca H. Winfield (Zachary) of Tucson AZ; three great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Marshall, and Catherine Zafiriou, and many nieces and nephews.
Robert Gordon Hill passed away peacefully on July 28, 2012, surrounded by family at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham, AL. Bob, as he was known to his friends, was born the youngest of seven children on May 5, 1924 in Albany, Georgia, to the late Carl and Clara Hill. Bob is preceded in death by his blue-eyed beauty and the love his life for 56 years, Aleese Smith Hill. Bob received a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from Georgia Institute of Technology. At Georgia Tech he was a member of Kappa Alpha Order, and he served as the team manager for the Georgia Tech football team. He served in World War II as an officer on the Aircraft Carrier, USS Monterey, in the Pacific. Bob went on to be the Founder and President of Hill Oil Company in LaGrange, Georgia. As an active member of the LaGrange community, Bob was instrumental in the startup of LaGrange Academy, and he had served as an active member of the Rotary Club, Highland Country Club, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, the Troup County Republican Party, and the Georgia Tech Alumni Association. Bob loved life, his family, friends, his travels to Europe and beyond the sunsets at Pensacola Beach, the Blue Angels performances, his former Costa Rica home, and being a fan of the Atlanta Braves and Georgia Tech athletics. Bob is survived by his son Robert Hill and daughters Diane Hill, Sharon Martin and Julie Hill. There are also ten grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and many beloved friends, including Marilyn Russell, his nephew Jimmy Hill, the late Climmie Fitzpatrick and his beloved pet and companion, General Patton. Published online courtesy of LaGrange News.
Robert Arthur “Bob” Holden, of Atlanta, Passed away on August 9, 2012 at the age of 84. Mr. Holden was the son of the late George Lester Holden and Gertrude Pinson Holden of Cartersville. Bob was born on October 26 1927. He attended Cartersville schools and went to work at an early age to help support his family. He carried newspapers and worked on Bradshaw’s Dairy truck while attending high school and playing football graduating from Cartersville High School in 1944. Later he joined the Navy where he served as a jet fighter pilot instructor during the Korean Conflict. After serving in the Navy, he returned to Georgia Tech where he earned his masters degree and lettered in football. After completing college, Bob joined Eastern Airlines where he was employed for 33 years before retiring in 1989. He remained in contact with his Eastern friends and they enjoyed many happy times together. Bob’s main interests were; family, helping others, reading, conversations, loving life and his relentless pursuit of knowledge. He is survived by his wife of 54 years Virginia Hardaway Holden and son Robert “Robb” Holden Jr., his sister Carol Holden Culverhouse of Cartersville and a large extended family of nieces and nephews. We will miss Bob very much but will always remember his warm smile, big heart, love of life and people. The funeral service will be Tuesday, August 14, 2012 at 1:00 pm at Heritage Baptist Church, 1070 Douthit Ferry Rd., Cartersville, GA with Rev. Michael Tutterow officiating. He will lie in state at 12 Noon. Interment will follow in Sunset Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends Sunday 2:00pm-5:00pm and Monday 9:00am-8:00pm at A.S. Turner and Sons Funeral Home and Crematory. Published in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on August 12, 2012.
James R. Johnson, 80, of Duluth, GA passed away on October 1, 2012. He was born June 6, 1932 in Knoxville, TN where he graduated from Rule High School. Jim attended Georgia Tech where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees. While at Georgia Tech, he played football on the 1952 National Championship Team. He also played on the 1955 team and was honored by making the All SEC Conference team for the 1956 season. Jim served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955. He later worked as a manager for Printpack, Inc. in Atlanta. In 1969, he became an entrepreneur and inventor. He started his own company, initially called Atlanta MESCO, Inc. and later was known as AMI, Inc. The company was formed to design and create machinery for the packaging industry. During his tenure, Jim was awarded 4 U.S. Patents. He also created a company called Recpro, Inc, which designed and manufactured the recloseable plastic zipper. He owned the businesses until his retirement in 1999. Jim is survived by his wife of 59 years, Kathryn Johnson. He was preceded in death by his mother, Blanche Abrams, and his brother, Leslie Johnson. His survivors include his sons, Howie Johnson (Allison) of Canton, and Jon Johnson (Theresa) of Duluth, and his sister-in-law, Irma Johnson of Knoxville, TN. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Melissa Johnson Bradshaw (Eddie), Lauren Johnson Russell (Chris), Kathleen Johnson, Jeffrey Johnson, Connor Johnson, Mary Johnson, and Sydney Johnson. Jim is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Published online courtesy of Wages & Sons Funeral Homes and Crematories.
William C. “Bill” Jones, 82, born in Atlanta, Georgia, graduated from Boys High and Georgia Tech where he was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity and lettered in golf. After serving in Korea, he joined the Macon office of Merrill Lynch where he became manager until his retirement in 1988. Mr. Jones served on the boards of Wesleyan College, Macon College, Boy Scouts of America, and Georgia Securities Dealers’ Association. He was a charter member of the RAFB Museum of Aviation, led the Keystone campaign to raise money for the School of Engineering at Mercer University, President of Macon Arts Alliance, Chairman of Macon/Bibb County Planning and Zoning Commission and an active member of the Macon Rotary Club and First Presbyterian Church. He enjoyed playing golf, bridge, and working crossword puzzles. Mr. Jones was predeceased by his wife, Peggy. He is survived by his three children, Doug (Cindy) of Atlanta, Bruce (Tava) of Atlanta, and Barbara (Marty) Foshee of Milledgeville; eight grandchildren; and three great grandchildren. Published online courtesy of Hart’s Mortuary and Crematory.
L. “Jeff” Knox, age 82, a native of Atlanta, GA, and resident of Fairhope, AL, passed away Tuesday, September 5, 2012. He was a graduate of Georgia Tech, played football for Georgia Tech and United States Army, and was the past President of Georgia International Insurance Company. He was formerly employed by the Marriott Grand Hotel. He is survived by his wife of 60 yrs, Gloria Eye Knox of Fairhope, AL, daughter, Jeffney (Alan) Fletcher of Cumming, GA, 2 sons, George (Mary) Knox of Dallas, TX, Garth (Denise) Knox of Fairhope, AL, sister, Dorothy Ruth Durant of VA, 6 grandchildren, Tiffany, Katy, Drew, Christopher, Maci, Allie, 3 great grandchildren, Knox, Madeleine, Sloan, other relatives and friends. Published in the Press-Register from September 5 to September 7, 2012.
Larry Cleo Morris passed away on December 19, 2012 after an extended illness. He was born on December 10, 1933. Larry, a native Atlantan, attended Georgia Military Academy, Decatur High School, and graduated from Georgia Institute of Technology in 1955 with a degree in Industrial Management. He was a member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity and captain of both the baseball and football teams at Tech. Larry was honored as an All-American football player, All SEC, and inducted into both the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame. After graduation from Tech he played twelve years of professional football with the Los Angeles Rams, the Chicago Bears, and the Atlanta Falcons. In 1963 he was named MVP of the World Champion Chicago Bears. Larry went on to establish a successful career in insurance and real estate development. In 1968 he was elected and served a term in the Georgia State Legislature. He is a member of Blackshear Place Baptist Church. Surviving relatives include his wife of 55 years, Kay Wilder Morris, currently of Flowery Branch, Georgia, son Chris and wife Cindy, and their children Olivia and Micah; son Britt and wife Kathy, and their children Katie, Emma, and Charlie; son Shan and wife Meri Beth, and their children Carson and Claire; daughter Kayanne and husband Eddie Staub, and their children Kaylin, Daniel, Nathan, Anna and Joseph. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff of Presbyterian Village for the love and quality care they gave him the last few years. Larry’s greatest legacy to his family is his strong faith in God, expressed in the love and kindness shown through the years. He modeled remarkable perseverance and grace. Celebrating his home going and freedom, he will be greatly missed. Published in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on December 21, 2012.
William “Bill” Orth, 79, passed away on Sunday, February 12, 2012. Mr. Orth was born in Piqua, OH. He was the son of the late Cletus J. Orth and Dorothy Frances (Vornholt) Orth. He graduated from Georgia Tech where he lettered in Track/Cross Country and received his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Mr. Orth retired from the city of Warner Robins with over twenty years of employment with the engineering department. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Warner Robins. -Survivors include his brother Robert L. (Amelia) Orth of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL; sister Caroline McClain of New Madison, OH; nephews, Kyle Orth of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, Ira Cletus (Gail) McClain of Bloomington, IL, Dwight McClain of New Madison, OH; nieces, Deborah Orth (Tyler) Shearer of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, Sharon McClain Petry, Donna McClain Alexander; and numerous grand nieces and nephews. Published in The Telegraph on February 20, 2012.
Albert N. “Bud” Parker, 76, son of William A. and Emmy N. Parker of Atlanta, GA, passed away at home on Friday, August 10, 2012. Born October 16, 1935, Bud graduated from The Georgia Institute of Technology in 1958. While at Ga Tech, he was the captain of the tennis team, SEC doubles champion, president of his senior class, and member of ANAK. After serving as an officer in the U.S. Navy, he returned to the family business, Beck and Gregg Hardware, which later merged with Genuine Parts Company. After leaving GPC, he became a private investor. He also focused his time and energy on raising funds for, and personally contributing to, organizations he felt demonstrated his love of God, Country and his fellow man. He established the 507th PIR D-Day Exhibit at the Warner Robins’ Museum of Aviation and financially enabled the production of three films honoring veterans, “D-Day: Down to Earth”, “Papa said, We should never forget” and “WWII Flying ACE: Robert L. Scott”. Bud loved God, his Family and treasured his many friends. He was grateful and proud for having been born an American with all the freedoms and opportunities this country provided. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Robin Rae Parker formerly of Birmingham, AL; daughter Emmy Parker Temples and her husband Joe and granddaughter Mollie; son Robert R. Parker; brother William A. Parker Jr.; nephews William A. Parker III and Richard C. Parker and niece Isobel Parker Mills. He encouraged others to develop a passion and then to persevere and become the best they could with their God given talents. He inspired many to soar and was always behind the scenes encouraging them to even greater heights. He always believed that something wonderful was about to happen and every communication ended with “The Best is Yet to Come”. He was one of the best and will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. Published in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on August 12, 2012.
Raymond “Buddy” Pilgrim, 76, passed away Monday, September 17, 2012. He was born in Trion, GA, to the late Thomas Grady and Donnie Tate Pilgrim. He was a graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology, class of 1959, where he eventually earned his masters degree in Industrial Management. He played football for Tech under coach Bobby Dodd as a lineman, and along the way made some lifetime friends. He served his country in the U.S. Army where he was a 1st Lieutenant. Buddy retired from a career as a senior business executive in the sporting goods and apparel industries after traveling the world for most of his life. His travels took him to the UK, China, Korea, Taiwan, and other places that he loved to visit and where he made some of the best friends in his life. His companies, where he served as COO/CEO, included Oxford Manufacturing, Diversified Products, Bayly Manufacturing, Daisy Air Rifles, the Springfield Armory, and Danube Knitwear in Budapest, Hungary, among others. Buddy was an active member of Elizabeth Lee United Methodist Church in Chickamauga. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Sarah Elizabeth Pilgrim; and a brother, Leroy Pilgrim.He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Katheryn Hegwood Pilgrim; sons Jeff (Laurie) Pilgrim, of Watkinsville, Ga., Andy (Candy) Pilgrim, of Ooltewah; grandchildren, Jessica, Aaron, Matthew and Allie Pilgrim; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog Chloe. Published online courtesy of timesfreepress.com.
Ira Gray Rathbun, 82, went to be with the Lord on November 20, 2012. Ira was born May 7, 1930, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Ira Avon and Mary Gray Rathbun. He moved to Tennessee with his family in 1942, living in Greeneville, Oak Ridge and finally Kingsport. He attended Dobbins-Bennett High School, where he met the love of his life, Jean Bridwell. They were married in 1950 and recently celebrated 62 years of marriage.After graduating from high school, Ira attended Georgia Tech on a football scholarship. He joined the U.S. Air Force, serving more than four years, earning the rank of staff sergeant. He then worked for the U.S. Geological Survey until he retired and moved to Port Aransas. Unable to slow down, he bought and maintained Jim’s Lawn Service until he died. Ira was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a longtime member of the Port Aransas Boatmen’s Association, where he served as treasurer. He worked diligently with the association to raise money for scholarships for Port Aransas High students. For his service, he was awarded Boatman of the Year and inducted into the Boatmen’s Hall of Fame. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Dick and Mike. He is survived by his wife, Jean; and his brother, Casey of Longview. He is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews, 12 great-nieces and great-nephews and his faithful cat, Max. Published in Longview News-Journal on November 23, 2012.
Ronald Eugene John Sineway, 82, of Atlanta died June 11, 2012. The son of Claire and Royal Sineway, Ronald was born in Garfield Heights, Ohio and was a graduate of Georgia Tech where he participated on the baseball team. A longtime Architect, Ronald was affiliated with the firms of Toombs, Armisano and Wells and the Facility Group. He is noted for the design of the Peachtree Summit Building, Lenox Square and the Woodruff Arts Center as well as many other projects. Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Christine; children and their spouses, David and Jane Sineway; Michael and Jan Sineway; Harry and Sherri Kitchens; Sheila and Doug Steidinger; grandchildren, Daniel, Emily, Melissa, Jennifer, Jacqueline, Bobby, James, Tyler. 3 great-grandchildren; sister, Phyllis Cashin. Published in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on June 13, 2012.
Jeff L. Smith, IM 75, of Huntsville, AL., passed away on June 13, 2012. Jeff was a Georgia Tech football letterman, and an Industrial Engineer for Chrysler.
Robert “Doane” Thomas, Sr., 71, of Leesburg, FL passed away on Sunday, September 30, 2012. Mr. Thomas was born August 28, 1941 in Ocala to the late Robert Leon Curtis and Helen (Caruthers) Thomas. Robert was a 1959 graduate of Wildwood High School and accepted a full football scholarship to GA-Tech where he graduated in 1963. He joined the Air Force where he was a Captain flying F-4 Fighter Jets in Vietnam and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. After his service he was hired by Delta Airlines in 1970 and retired after 31 years of service for Delta Airlines in 2001. He returned to this area in 1980 and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Leesburg and the GA Tech Letterman Club. He supported many local and international Christian missions organizations. He was the family rock and he loved God deeply. Survivors include his wife, Deborah “Debbie” Ireland Thomas, daughters; Leisa (Dan) Hoppach, Courtney (Daniel) Rohrdanz, sons; Robert Doane (Leigh) Thomas Jr., Chris (Alyssa) Thomas, Collin Thomas, sister; Gail Harrison and 5 grandchildren. Published online courtesy of Banks/Page-Theus Funerals and Crematories.
Cecil E. Trainer, of Spartanburg, SC, died on Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at his home. Born July 21, 1931 in Atlanta, GA, he was the son of the late Cecil E. Trainer Sr. and Mildred Lewis Trainer. He was an All-State athlete at Brown High School in Atlanta, then attended Georgia Tech on a football scholarship, where he was an Academic All-American and starting defensive end for the 1952 National Championship Team. After serving in the U.S. Army, he went on to a career with Southern Wood Piedmont Company and United Wood Treating Products. Cecil leaves his wife of 59 years, Betty Trainer; his son, Bill (Hsiang-Mei), daughter, Laura Price (Henry), son, Sam (Heather); grandchildren, Max Price, Christie Trainer, Sam Trainer Jr.; brother, Fred Trainer (Margaret); sister, Sylvia Mazeau (Ron); brother-in-law, Michael Backus (Donna); and many nephews and nieces. Published in Spartanburg Herald-Journal from October 19 to October 20, 2012.
William Von Thaden, of Stratham, N.H., devoted husband, father, friend and pilot extraordinaire, departed this earthly place to fly free. Born in Pittsburgh, Pa., on July 29, 1930, to pioneering aviators Louise and Herbert Von Thaden, he flew with his multiple award winning mother since time minus nine months. Bill’s family settled in Roanoke, where he attended Crystal Spring Elementary School, Lee Junior, and Jefferson High. A great athlete, he played scholarship football at Georgia Tech in the 1950s, and on the National Championship team of 1952 with Coach Bobby Dodd. Bill joined the ROTC and served in the US Marine Corps as a jet fighter pilot. He traveled the world and later joined Eastern Airlines, where he became a Captain. It was there that he met and married his wife of 52 years, Louise Orsie Thaden. They had two children-Tracy and Terry. Bill also leaves behind a sister, Patricia Thaden Webb, of Maryland, who grew up in Roanoke. Published in Roanoke Times on July 8, 2012.
Julian L. “Hootie” Wade, Jr., 79, husband of Martha Ann “Maggie” Wade, died Saturday, February 18, 2012. Born in Greenville, he was a son of the late Julian L. Wade, Sr. and Margaret West Wade Easterby. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, and, after a long career, retired with J.P. Stevens. Hootie lived in Greenville his entire life. He was a 1950 graduate of Greenville High School and remained devoted to his high school friends throughout his life. He graduated from Georgia Tech in 1954 where he was a member of Kappa Alpha Order. Hootie was a member of the tennis team for both Greenville High School and Georgia Tech and remained a competitive player for most of his life. He was an avid golfer and member of the Greenville Country Club where he was a member of “The Good Ole Boys” and “Dirty Dozen” golf groups. Hootie was a devoted friend, and many began their day by reading emails from him about something interesting, funny, or noteworthy. Many Saturday mornings found Hootie moving through area yard sales often in search of a collectible for a family member or friend. Married for almost fifty-six years, Hootie’s devotion to Maggie and affection for their children and grandchildren remained a central part of everyday life. Shared experiences with “Toot” and “Grand Maggie” at Litchfield Beach and Lake Hartwell are cherished memories. He stayed in close touch with his children and grandchildren and provided them with a steady flow of jokes and funny stories. They knew that he was always available to them and that they could count on him to help solve a problem or to celebrate one of life’s successes. Surviving, in addition to his wife, are daughter, Margaret Ann Wade McMullen, and husband, Edward, of Columbia; two sons, Julian L. “Buddy” Wade III, and wife, Sabrina, of Fort Mill, and William “Billy” Echols Wade, of Greenville, and six grandchildren, Kirstin Ann Wade, Collette Lynn Wade, Julianne Elizabeth Wade, Katherine West McMullen, Edward Thomas McMullen, III, and Maddison Echols Wade. Published online courtesy of Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Downtown.
Dr. Sid E. Williams, 84, of Powder Springs, GA. died Thursday, December 27, 2012. Dr. Sid E. Williams wanted to convert the world to chiropractic care. To that end, the Life University founder created a place that could educate and train anyone who believed in his vision. Along with his wife, Dr. Nell Williams, he started Life Chiropractic in 1974, which became Life College and is now Life University. The school, while under Williams’ direction in the 1990s, became the largest chiropractic college in the world with an 89-acre campus and more than 3,500 students. A 1946 graduate of Atlanta’s Tech High School, Williams was a football standout in high school and at Georgia Tech, where he was inducted into the school’s hall of fame in 1999. Williams said his parents, neither of whom were chiropractors, encouraged him in the field. He went to Palmer School of Chiropractic, in Davenport, Iowa, for four years before coming back to Georgia. He didn’t set out to build the largest chiropractic school, but he had big dreams, Williams told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in 2009. “I don’t think we ever thought we would do that, but we always thought in big terms,” he said. “I was gung-ho about everything chiropractic. There’s a lot of love and expertise built into that. We built 32 clinics after we got out of Davenport, Iowa, and I’m proud of them.” In addition to his wife, Williams is survived by his children, Dr. Kim Williams, of Powder Springs, and Dr. John Sidney Williams, of Pennsylvania; and three grandchildren. Excerpt from obituary published in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on December 27, 2012.
