Taylor Funeral Home of Chattanooga

08/28/2026

Shelia McClendon was born to Albert and Bessie Smith in Chattanooga, Tennessee on December 7, 1956.

Shelia was educated in the Chattanooga Public School System and graduated from City High School, Class of 1975. She attended TSU. Shelia’s home church was Church of the First Born.

Shelia was preceded in death by her mother and father.

Shelia leaves to cherish her memories her husband, Melvin Lamarr McClendon; son, Edwin Cody; daughter, Juwana Cody; step-children, Leslie Edwards and Laurence Howard; grandson, Kamron Jordan Robbs and 12 grandchildren; sisters, Clara Smith, Jo Ann (Lee) Swain, Glenda Foy; sisters-in-law, Kondra Nance, Cynthia McClendon, and Carolyn Nance; brother-in-law, Robert Ellison; nephew and nieces, Aretha, Quentin, John, Angela, Denzel and a host of other relatives, friends and loved ones.

Shelia will lie-in-state on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel with Pastor Mark Wood as the Eulogist.

08/28/2026

08/20/2026

Roosevelt Blanks, 82, passed away peacefully at his residence on Thursday, August 13, 2026, following his courageous battle with lung cancer.

Roosevelt was a man whose life was defined by family, hard work, laughter, and an unforgettable personality. He attended Howard High School, but his early commitment to his family and his desire to provide for those he loved led him to enter the workforce before completing his diploma. That decision reflected a quality that would remain with him throughout his life, family always came first.

Roosevelt worked at Moccasin Bend Mental Hospital before becoming a taxi driver for Mercury Cab Company, where his conversational and jokester spirit truly emerged. He had a gift for making connections with people and, as anyone who knew him would say, he never met a stranger.

His memorable sayings were just as much a part of him as his infectious personality. Phrases like “All the time” and “Play a fool to catch a fool” became expressions that his family and friends will forever associate with him. Those words, his laughter, and his unmistakable sense of humor will continue to bring smiles to the faces of those who loved him.

Over 20 years of Roosevelt’s working career was spent in Rossville, Georgia, at Kleen-A-Matic Cleaning Company, now known as UniFirst. His dedication and strong work ethic were reflections of the man he was: dependable, resilient, and committed to the people he loved.

Roosevelt was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Thomas Blanks and Fletcher Blanks; his beloved wife, Ruby A. Blanks; and his brothers, Jimmy Marshall and Shuley Marshall.

He leaves to cherish his memory his two daughters, Rose Blanks and Whitney Blanks; sisters, Diane Blanks Parks and Mary Lynn Perryman; his grandchildren, Lawrence Brewer, Jr., Lydarius Brewer, Samone Brewer, and Makinlea Williams; two great-grandchildren, Jeremiah Manghane and Gianna Brewer; nieces, nephews and a host of family members and friends who were blessed to know and love him.

Roosevelt’s love for his family was evident in the simplest moments—the conversations we shared, the laughter that filled the room, the lottery tickets we scratched off together, and his shared love of good music, especially anything Motown or Frankie Beverly and Maze. These moments may have seemed ordinary at the time, but they are now treasured memories that will remain with us forever.

Most of all, Roosevelt showed us what it meant to be a fighter. He taught us that strength isn't always loud; sometimes it looks like simply being present, making someone laugh, having a conversation, playing your favorite music, and loving your family through it all.

We will forever be grateful for his small stature but monumental presence. His life may have come to an end, but the laughter, wisdom, stories, sayings, music, and love he gave us will continue to live on through every person he touched. Rest well, Roosevelt. Your work here is done. Your legacy lives on.

Roosevelt will lie-in-state on Monday, August 24, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 12:30 p.m. in the Chapel with Pastor Alfred Hawkins as the Eulogist. Burial in Greenwood Cemetery.

08/20/2026

Mr. Nelson Dewayne Taylor was born on March 28, 1961, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he resided his entire life. On the night of August 4, 2026, Nelson, age 65, passed away peacefully at Standifer Place Nursing Home in Chattanooga, TN.

Nelson was educated in the Chattanooga Public School System. He loved and enjoyed spending time with his family. Widely known for his dancing and outgoing personality, Nelson was revered as a smooth-moving "Dancing Uncle" who danced on beat with style and rhythm.

Nelson was preceded in death by his parents, James and Juanita Taylor; sisters, Mattie Taylor and Talza Bridges; and brothers, Paul Bridges and Frederick Taylor, Sr.

Nelson is loved and survived by his daughters, Nakia Taylor and Kamyla (Brian) Carr; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sisters, Monica Coleman and Jamesetta (William) Middlebrooks, both of Chattanooga, TN, and Wiletha (Larry) Webb of Birmingham, AL; brother, Patrick Taylor of Chattanooga, TN; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and a special dear friend, Mozell Scott, who will miss him dearly.

Nelson will lie-in-state on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 12 noon in the Chapel with Pastor Mark Wood as the Eulogist. Burial in Forest Hills Cemetery.

08/18/2026

David Dwayne McDaniel, Sr., 66, of Chattanooga, passed away Friday, August 7, 2026, in the Hospice Care Center. He was educated in the Chattanooga Public Schools and attended Howard High School. He was employed for several years by the Chattanooga Housing Authority in the Lawn Care Department.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Tucker; mother, Georgia Hooks; wife, Jacqueline McDaniel; son, Demetrius D. Birt; grandmother, Edith McDaniel; sisters, Tonya McDaniel and Edith Yvette Johnson; brother, Homer Kevin Tucker; and niece, Lakeisha Unique Allen.

Survivors include his sons, Montez Birt, David Dwayne McDaniel, Jr., and Brandon McDaniel; daughters, Shantae McDaniel, LaShonda Birt, Destiny McDaniel, and NaTasha Davis Graham, all of Chattanooga; 16 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; brother, James Tucker, Jr.; sisters, Patricia (Willie) Harris and Andrinna (Maurice) Davis, all of Chattanooga; very close niece, D’Journey Bradley; a host of other nieces; nephews; cousins; close friend, Ciara Robinson and other friends.

David will lie-in-state on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 1-5 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will be Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel with Pastor Ronald Tucker as the Eulogist. Burial in Forest Hills Cemetery.

08/18/2026

Cameron James Hunter-Loftin, 35, of Chattanooga, completed his journey here on earth on Monday, August 10, 2026, after a brief hospital stay in a Nashville, Tennessee hospital. He was born on November 7, 1990, to Rachael Loftin and James Hunter. Cameron, aka Big Cam, grew up in Stockton, California and moved to Tennessee when he was 12 with his mom, brother and aunt Nadine.

While Cameron was not perfect, he will be remembered for the love he had for his family and friends who he called his brothers and sisters. Cameron could be described as a gentle giant, or the biggest teddy bear you ever saw. He loved harder than most people but never hesitated to let you know what he really thought. He’d argue with anyone who would argue back and at the end of the conversation he’d say “right or wrong, make it make sense. I love you bruh.” Even when he was battling his own demons, he would find a way to pour strength into others and always reminded us that God doesn’t make mistakes or that God has us no matter what we are going through.

Cameron was not a religious man, but he knew and respected God’s name and he took solace in knowing God was right by his side through whatever life brought his way. He took comfort in knowing that God had blessed him with family who would be by his side, regardless of the situation, and would stand next to him through thick and thin, they would weather any storm with him.

He was preceded in death by his grandma, Arlene Loftin, his guardian angel who we know welcomed him with open arms; his grandpa, Bill Loftin; many other aunts, uncles and cousins but also some very close friends who were his brothers; may they all rest in peace.

He is survived by his mother, Rachael Loftin, who loved Cameron beyond measure and everyone knew not to mess with his mama; his brother, Anthony Loftin-Sneed who lived a life so opposite of Cameron but that brotherly love between them was something that was unspoken; but most importantly his 10-year-old son, Cameron Hunter-Loftin, Jr. Anyone that knew Cameron knew that Junior was his world and there isn’t anything he wouldn’t do for his son. Cameron pushed him daily to be better than him, to be the greatest he could be because Cameron believed Junior was the greatest ever! Finally, we can’t forget his own personal chef, aunt Nadine. But everyone knows, she wasn’t just his chef she was his favorite auntie.

One thing about Cameron, he might have been hard on the outside, but he would give his life for his family and the ones he loved. He also leaves behind friends who were also his brothers and sisters, his ride or dies and were just as much his family as his own biological family. While Cameron will be greatly missed, the love he shared and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Cameron will lie-in-state on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home with a homegoing service to follow at 12:00 noon in the Chapel. Burial in Forest Hills Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

08/14/2026

Jacqueline D. Scott, 64, of Chattanooga, passed away Monday, August 3, 2026, in a local hospital. She will lie-in-state on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will be on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Greater Tucker Missionary Baptist Church. Burial on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Highland Memorial Gardens.

08/14/2026

Anntanella Denise Willingham, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, was born on August 3, 1962. She peacefully passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at CHI Memorial Hospital. Anntanella brought immense warmth, joy, and love to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Anntanella spent her life dedicated to her family, her community, and her faith. A proud graduate of Howard High School, Class of 1980, she was also a devoted member of Union Hill Baptist Church, where she found great joy in lifting her voice as a member of the choir. She was widely known for her infectious laugh, her unwavering kindness, and her generous spirit. Throughout her journey, she touched countless lives, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met with her gentle guidance and supportive heart. She leaves behind a legacy of love and beautiful memories.

She was preceded in death by her beloved family members: Frank Usher, Sr., Mary Usher, Frank Usher, III, Ella Mae Foust, Nora Lee Crutcher, and Tommy Taylor.

Anntanella is survived by Marquise Mitchell, Jasmine, and Frank Usher Jr., as well as her 8 cherished grandchildren and her adored great-grandchildren. She also leaves to cherish her memory a large, loving network of extended family formed through the unification of the Usher and Rice families—embracing loved ones from both her mother’s and father’s sides—along with many dear friends.

Anntanella will lie-in-state on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Union Hill Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the church.

08/14/2026

Tamiko Lashawn Burney was born on October 25, 1974, in Baldwin Park, CA, the beloved daughter of Joyce Burney and Hoyle (Harold) Hogue. She was later lovingly adopted by her late father, J.R Burney, who played a significant role in raising her. She was honored to carry the name that became a meaningful part of her life’s journey. Known to family as “Meek” and “Miko,” Tamiko was someone who valued faith, family, and hard work. She lived life in her own way and found comfort in the simple things. Those who knew her best will remember her jokes, quite nature, strength, and the love she had for her family.

Tamiko attended Brainerd High School in Chattanooga, TN, before moving back to California, where she graduated from Paseo Robles High School in 1992. She briefly attended Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut, CA before returning to Chattanooga, TN. After returning home, she attended Chattanooga Barber College, where she earned her Cosmetology license.

As a young woman, Tamiko became an active choir member at the Church of Jesus. It was there that she met the love of her life, Joshua Burney III. Together they shared 33 years of marriage and created a life centered around each other. On May 7, 2007, they welcomed their daughter, Divine Burney, who became the greatest joy of Tamiko’s life. She loved being Divine’s mother and took great pride in watching her grow. Tamiko also took great pride in her work and was known as a dependable employee, while dedicating 19 years of service to McKee Foods Bakery. Tamiko was called home to be with the Lord on July 9, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her adoptive father, J.R Burney; grandparents, Eugenia Hogue, Davis and Gladys Lewis, Sims and Edith Bledsoe; mothers-in-law Bonnie K. Burney and Twilight Burney; sister, Dinah Burney; brother, Joseph Burney; aunt, Betty Willis; uncle, Grover Lewis; and her nephew, Tawon Colvin.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her devoted husband, Joshua Burney III; her beloved daughter, Divine Burney; mother, Joyce Burney; father, Hoyle (Harold) Hogue; father-in-law, Joshua Burney, Jr. (Francis); brothers, Sherell Lewis, Danny Lewis, Simeon (Jeanette) Burney, Rudolph Burney, Larry Burney, and Jacob (Madrinna) Burney; sisters, Hazann Burney, Terri Hogue Palacios-Cook, Jan (Ronnie) Johnson, Wanda Brown, and Donna Marie Hall; sisters-in-law, Lois Burney-Moss, Eunice (Rodney) Brown, and Litaun Lewis; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, friends and loved ones who will continue to honor her memory.

Tamiko will lie-in-state on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 12:30-5 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 12:00 noon in the Chapel. Burial in Highland Memorial Gardens.

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08/14/2026

Norma June Bolt Gannaway, 92, of Chattanooga, passed away peacefully from this life on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at her Ooltewah, Tennessee residence. She was born November 11th, 1933, in Greenville, SC to Harold Ledel Bolt and Beatrice Morris Bolt. She graduated from Pendleton High School where she lettered in basketball and served as the team captain. She was named valedictorian of the class of 1951.

June ventured to Henderson, Tennessee to attend Freed-Hardeman College where she completed her associate degree. She continued her education in Nashville, TN at David Lipscomb College where she earned a bachelor’s degree in business with a minor in history. Upon graduation, she relocated to Chattanooga, TN where she met her future husband.

June married Graydon E. Gannaway, Jr. on December 14, 1956. They were the first couple to be married at Eastdale Church of Christ. He was the love of her life. They were blessed with three children and lived in Chattanooga until the 1970’s when they moved to Ooltewah, TN. June and Graydon shared 22 years together before his untimely death. She navigated her life as a young widow with faith, courage, and independence.

June worked at O.B. Andrews and American Lava before starting a family. She enjoyed raising children with Graydon and being very involved in their daily lives. She later worked at Central High School and local childcare centers before finding her niche at Martin Boyd Christian Home. She deeply enjoyed her years there as a receptionist and developed friendships with many of the staff, residents, and their family members.

June knew Jesus as her Savior. She was a member of Ooltewah Church of Christ. She was always energetic and diligently looked for ways to help others. She loved to send and receive cards, and this ministry was very important to her for many years. Though she learned to play the piano, she most enjoyed singing acapella. She had a beautiful voice and could skillfully sing alto or tenor as she joined in worship.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Beatrice Bolt; her husband, Graydon Gannaway, Jr.; and her only sibling, Kay Smith (Bill).

June is survived by her children, Kerry (Geri) Gannaway of Ooltewah, TN, Laurie (Tim) Eakes of La Vergne, TN, and Jill (David) Flood of Tunnel Hill, GA; nine grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; several nieces; nephews; cousins; other relatives and friends.

June will lie-in-state on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 1:30-5:00 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will be Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in the Chapel with Denny Howell as the Eulogist. Burial in Greenwood Cemetery with David Flood, ThD presiding.
Active Casket Bearers will be John Gannaway, Jeremy Gannaway, Dillon Flood, Bryce Eakes, Matt Smith, and Cody Cranmore. Honorary Casket Bearers will be Tim Eakes, Kendall C**n, and Malcom Wells.
Active Floral Bearers will be Jennifer C**n, Ashley Flood, Heather Cranmore, and Hannah Smith. Honorary Floral Bearers Kayla Wells, Alexis Eakes, and Emma Flood.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Martin Boyd Christian Home, 6845 Standifer Gap Road, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421.

We are deeply grateful to the staff of Adoration Hospice for their compassionate care. A special thank you is extended to Ally and Jamie for their dedicated care and kindness.