Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center

07/27/2026

Albert Murphy

David Albert Murphy, age 59, a native of Gallatin, was born on March 14, 1967 and entered into rest on July 21, 2026.

From a young age, Albert had a passion for racing dirtbikes and motorcycles, even earning sponsorships in his youth. His love for engines and speed stayed with him throughout his life, and he remained an avid car enthusiast. Albert didn’t just admire fine automobiles; he was the proud owner of a 1968 Camaro and 1987 Monte Carlo Super Sport.

Albert was proud to live and work on his family’s multi-generational farm, a property that had been in the Murphy family for more than 100 years. While he primarily raised cattle, he also grew to***co for nearly a decade and tended a small garden every year. Albert also dedicated 19 years of service to Pettis Builders. Just like his father, he instilled a strong work ethic in his daughter and led by example of working hard every day.

Albert had a well-rounded skillset and was always lending a helping hand. He was a gifted master carpenter, mechanic, and true jack of all trades. His knowledge, craftsmanship, and generous spirit made him someone others could always count on.With his own hands, Albert built his own home and multiple barns where he created his personal paradise. Albert enjoyed collecting guns and hunting deer, turkey, and quail. He was known to have an eagle eye and precise aim.

However, Albert’s greatest accomplishment was being a devoted father and grandfather. Albert and his daughter, Ashley, shared an extraordinary bond, so close that friends and family joked they were twins. He was also a proud and loving grandfather, affectionately known as “Little Papa”.

Albert had a great sense of humor and never missed an opportunity to share a laugh, especially with his many friends at Last Call. His kindness, work ethic, and unwavering love for his family left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Albert leaves behind a legacy that his family is proud to carry forward.

David Albert Murphy’s memory will be cherished by his daughter, Ashley Ann Johnson (Joseph); grandchildren, Olivia Johnson, Ezra Poe Johnson; father, Sherman Murphy; aunt, Cleo Cothron; aunt, Media Graves, Uncle Harvey Thaxton and his wife of 41 years, Carolyn Murphy from whom he had been separated; as well as many, many cows, and his ’68 Camaro.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Patricia “Dink” Murphy; four heavenly baby brothers; cousins and adopted brothers, Tony Gentry and James Chandler; paternal grandparents, Albert and Lena Murphey; maternal grandparents, June and Mildred Thaxton; aunts, Shirley Miederhoff, Lulubell Hunter, Francis Gentry, Maxine Rather; and uncles, Sam Murphey, George Vaughn.

Visitation with the Murphy family will take place at Alexander Funeral Home and Cremation Center, on Friday, August 7, from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM, and continue Saturday, August 8, from 9:00 AM until service time at 11:00 AM. Bro. Chad Pennick will be officiating the funeral service in honor of Albert Murphy.

Interment in Crestview Memory Gardens will immediately follow. Those serving as pallbearers will be Lee Vantrease, Steve Phillips, Sandy Bradley, Randy Willis, Terry Nolen, and Gary Murphey Sr. Honorary pallbearers are his father, Sherman Murphy, Heath Reynolds, and Steve Stringer. He will be escorted to his final resting place by his father, Sherman Murphy, driving his New Holland TL90A.

07/25/2026

Lorie Susan Bowers Wolfe

Lorie Susan Bowers Wolfe, age 60 of Gallatin, passed away July 24, 2026. Susan was preceded in death by her father, Chester Bowers, grandparents, Sid and Ola Davenport and James and Ruby Bowers, sister, Lee Ann Bowers and niece, Ashley Glasgow. She is survived by her daughter, Cassie Stephens (Jeff), son, Curtis Wolfe, mother, Maxine Bowers, grandchildren, Aydin Stephens and Brody Stephens, brother, William Bowers, nephews, Connor Bowers (Abby) and Sidney Bowers and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Also survived by Jeff’s mother, Linda Stephens, who became a close and cherished friend.

Lorie Susan was a graduate of Gallatin High School Class of 1984. She was also a graduate of Barnell Business College and then became a L.P.N. through Sumner Regional Medical Center Nursing Program. Lorie Susan worked at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution and nursing home memory care units throughout her nursing career.

Lorie Susan was a Predators Hockey fan. Also, she enjoyed watching movies and reading books especially by her favorite author, Stephen King. Her greatest joy was watching her grandchildren, Aydin and Brody, grow up.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 31st from the chapel of Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center with Pastor Jerry Davis officiating. Interment will follow in Sumner Memorial Gardens with Aydin Stephens, Brody Stephens, Connor Bowers, Sidney Bowers and family friends serving as pallbearers. Visitation will be Thursday, July 30th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. and Friday, July 31st from 10:00 a.m. until time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Homebound Ministry of First Baptist Church Gallatin, PO Box 369 Gallatin, TN 37066 or Feed Sumner, 121 Gregory Drive, Gallatin, TN 37066.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center. Online condolences may be submitted at alexandergallatin.com. (615) 502-0011

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07/23/2026

Ronnie Lee Reecer

Ronnie Lee Reecer, age 72 of Gallatin, passed away July 21, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, W.E. and Doris Reecer. He is survived by his daughter, Misty (Eric) Pedigo; sister, Carolyn (Eldon) Yankee; grandchildren, Kiersten (Amir) King, Bryan (Lily) Neely, Kelsey Pedigo, Kara Pedigo, and Nathan Pedigo; great-grandchildren, Stevie Neely and Amora King.

To know Ronnie was to love him. He was known by many names to all that loved him including Dad, Pa, Uncle Ronnie and “Wino”, which that name he carried for many years driving them “ole Peterbilts” up and down the road. He was a man who had a heart of gold and would have done absolutely anything for anyone. Ronnie left his family so many great memories because he touched everyone’s heart that he met in his 72 years of life. He will definitely be missed. We love you Dad, and we will see you again.

A celebration of Ronnie will be held on Monday July 27 at 2pm at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Gallatin with visitation from 12 noon until time of service.

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07/23/2026

Donna Kay Reed

Donna Kay Reed, age 61, of Hartsville, Tennessee, departed this life on July 20, 2026.

Donna Kay was born in Gallatin, Tennessee, on December 1, 1964. She graduated from Trousdale County High School before proudly serving in the United States Air Force from 1983 to 1986, during which time she was stationed in Turkey. Donna Kay was deeply honored to have served her country, and her patriotism remained a defining part of her life.

Following her military service, Donna Kay devoted more than 37 years to a career in healthcare. She began as a Licensed Practical Nurse and, through determination and hard work, fulfilled her lifelong goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. Long-term care was her true passion, and she found great purpose in caring for others. Along the way, she formed lasting friendships with her colleagues and was honored to serve as a member of the Nursing Honor Guard.

Outside of her career, Donna Kay found peace in the outdoors. She especially loved visiting Cades Cove, where she delighted in spotting bears and taking in the beauty of nature. A talented photographer, she had a gift for capturing the wonder of the outdoors through her lens. Her creative eye also extended to crafting with her Cricut.

Donna Kay will be remembered for her fun-loving spirit, outgoing personality, and unwavering dedication to serving both her country and her community. Her kindness, compassion, and adventurous heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Donna Kay Reed will be dearly missed by her daughters, Jessica Griggs (Billy), Amanda Kistler; grandchildren, Jeffrey Griggs, Wyatt Griggs; mother, Carrie (Carter) Brown; sister, Linda Blair; brothers, Billy E. Brown Jr. (Cindy), David A. Brown (Michelle); as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Billy E. Brown Sr.

Family and friends will meet at Crestview Memory Gardens, (located 1623 Hwy 109 N., Gallatin, TN, 37066), for a graveside memorial service in honor of Donna Kay Reed, on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family of Donna Reed kindly request donations be made towards funeral expenses, https://gofund.me/6e5d0d127.

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07/19/2026

Richard Calvin Ballard

Richard Calvin “Rick” Ballard, 82, of Springfield, Tennessee, passed away on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee. Born March 8, 1944, in East St. Louis, Illinois, he was the son of the late Richard Calvin Ballard, Sr., and Catherine Millatti Ballard. Rick’s life was a testament to dedication, service, and love—a legacy treasured deeply by all who knew him.

Rick’s foundation was laid early on, graduating from Belleville Township High School with the class of 1963. Shortly thereafter, he answered his country’s call, serving in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1969 during the Vietnam War. His years in the military embodied his values of commitment and integrity, qualities that he would continue to display throughout the rest of his life. He would then go on to graduate from Central Missouri State University where he was on scholarship for football in 1970, and earn his Masters degree from Western Kentucky University in 1971.

Following college, Rick embarked on a distinguished career as an educator, most notably as principal of East Robertson High School from 1972 thru 2008. His passion for education extended to the classroom and the athletic field, teaching mathematics, health, physical education, and driver’s education. Rick also coached a variety of sports, including football, basketball, softball, volleyball, tennis, and soccer, inspiring countless students through his encouragement and belief in their potential. He was a dedicated member of the Robertson County Education Association, The Tennessee Education Association, and the National Education Association, always striving to make a positive impact in the lives of young people.

Rick’s devotion was not confined to his professional life. At home and in his community, he modeled faith, kindness, and service. He was a longtime member of Main Street Church of Christ, where he formerly served faithfully as an elder.

Among his proudest roles was that of grandfather. Rick cherished time spent attending his grandchildren’s games and events, celebrating their achievements with pride. He was especially delighted when his granddaughter Bayleigh chose to follow his path and became a teacher, embodying the legacy of education and encouragement that defined his life.

Rick leaves behind his beloved wife, Linda Crockett Ballard, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage. He is survived by his son Chance Ballard; his dearly loved grandchildren, Bayleigh Ballard and Ally Ballard; brothers Wayne (Diane) Ballard and Tony "Buck" (Beth) Ballard; and sisters Anna Jaworski and Josephine (Randy) Niebur.

Visitation will be held from 4pm to 7pm on Tuesday, July 21, at the Main Street Church of Christ, 318 North Main Street, in Springfield . A funeral service officiated by Brother Barry Throneberry and Brother Joe Rushing will take place at the church on Wednesday, July 22, at 1pm. The family will welcome friends and visitors one hour prior to the funeral. Burial with military graveside honors will follow in Springfield Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers will be David Collie, Dan Whitlow, Jody Swearingen, Mark Reeves, James Owens, and Scott Barron. Honorary pallbearers will be Tony Austin, Guy Stanley, and Mike Padgett.

Donations can be made to:

East Robertson High School Athletics, 158 Kilgore Trace, Cross Plains, TN 37049.

Main Street Church of Christ, 318 N Main Street, Springfield, TN 37172.

Rick’s life was one of service—service to his country, his community, his faith, and most of all, his family. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Arrangements entrusted to Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 584 Nashville Pike, Gallatin. (615) 502-0011 Online condolences can be left at www.AlexanderGallatin.com

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07/17/2026

Howard K. Blanton

Howard K. Blanton, born December 10, 1942, in Gallatin, Tennessee, passed away in his hometown on Thursday, July 16, 2026.

Howard spent his career as a truck driver, a profession that suited his strong work ethic and independent spirit.

Beyond his decades of hard work, Howard found joy in his passions. He had a particular fondness for hot rods—a love that was well known to those close to him. Whether attending car shows or tinkering under the hood, Howard's enthusiasm for classic cars was infectious and brought him much happiness throughout his life.

Above all, those who knew Howard will remember him for the deep love he held for his late wife, Charlotte. Their bond was a central and defining aspect of his life, and he cherished the time they shared together.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his father Kenneth Blanton and mother Pansy Howell Blanton.

Howard is survived by his beloved sister, Barbara McFarr; his nephew, David Morris; and his nieces, Carolyn Paski and Angela Mauelshagen. Their fond memories and enduring love will carry his memory forward.

Howard K. Blanton will be remembered for his steadfastness, warmth, and the genuine care he shared with those around him. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Arrangements entrusted to Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 584 Nashville Pike, Gallatin. (615) 502-0011 Online condolences can be left at www.AlexanderGallatin.com

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07/15/2026

Kay Phillips

Kay Phillips (née LaMarr) passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee, at the age of 88. Born on April 8, 1938, in Alexandria, Kentucky, she was the daughter of the late Elmer LaMarr and Hazel Lees LaMarr.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Charles E. Phillips, Jr.; son Charles E. "Butch" Phillips, III and his wife Edie; sisters Maxine Lampe and Sue Hashem.

She is survived by her sons John (Lori) Phillips and Michael (Cindy) Phillips; her grandchildren—Steven (Jacylann) Nix, James Nix, Jessica (Sven) Bremm, Adam Phillips, Zackary Phillips, Christopher Phillips, Abigail Phillips, Kaleb Phillips, and Ryan Phillips. She was also blessed with several great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her enormous joy. Kay’s warmth reached beyond immediate family, as she was a proud aunt to her nieces and nephews.

Kay’s home was a place of comfort and warmth, where loved ones felt welcomed. It has often been remembered that she was not only a great mother and excellent wife but also a loving grandmother. She was an avid reader and enjoyed games of Scrabble.

The family will host a visitation in honor of Kay’s life on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 584 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN. Funeral services will follow on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., also at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center. Interment will take place at Gallatin City Cemetery, Cemetery Ave, Gallatin, TN.

Arrangements entrusted to Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Gallatin. (615) 502-0011 Online condolences can be left at www.AlexanderGallatin.com

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07/15/2026

Cheryl Lynn Elliott

Cheryl Lynn Elliott, 61, of Hendersonville, Tennessee, departed this life on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee. Born on February 10, 1965, in Salem, Indiana, Cheryl embraced each chapter of her life with unwavering spirit, kindness, and enthusiasm.

Cheryl's early years were marked by her boundless energy and love for all things athletic. She was a proud member of the DuPont High School Class of 1983, where she stood out not only for her academic diligence but also for her devotion to sports—most notably softball and basketball. Cheryl’s passion for physical activity led her to pursue her studies further, earning her Master’s Degree in Health and Physical Education from Tennessee Tech. This commitment to knowledge and active living became a defining thread in the fabric of her life.

Cheryl's zest extended well beyond the classroom and the court. Her happiest moments were often spent outdoors, basking in the sunshine on the beach or enjoying peaceful days boating on the lake. The serenity of the water and the thrill of outdoor adventure highlighted Cheryl’s warm approach to life and her appreciation of nature.

She was preceded in death by her father, Jack Elliott; sister Wendy Parker; and niece Amber Ortiz.

Cheryl’s beloved family played a central role in her journey. She is survived by her devoted mother, Claire (Mike) Woodruff; her sisters, Melinda Elliott and Jackie Elliott; and her brother, Scott Elliott. Cheryl cherished her relationships with her nieces—Shelby Knowles, Mandi Knowles, and Autumn (Austin) Smith. She is also fondly remembered by her dear friend, J.J. Williamson, and Joy, whose four-legged companionship brought additional joy to her life.

Family and friends are invited to gather in Cheryl’s memory at a visitation on Friday, July 17, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, located at 584 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066. A Funeral Service officiated by Rev. Denman Frazier will follow at the same location at 2:00 p.m. The committal and burial will take place at Sumner Memorial Gardens, 420 Albert Gallatin Ave, Gallatin, TN 37066.

Donations can be made in Cheryls name to Safe Place for Animals, 905 Mallard Drive, Gallatin, TN 37066.

Cheryl’s vibrant spirit will remain forever cherished. She will be missed dearly, remembered always, and honored for a life so fully and lovingly lived.

Arrangements entrusted to Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Gallatin. (615) 502-0011 Online condolences can be left at www.AlexanderGallatin.com

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07/14/2026

Phillip Michael Stewart

Phillip Michael Stewart Obituary (1937-2026)

P. Michael Stewart, 88, formerly of Ashland, KY, died Thursday, July 9, 2026, in Gallatin, Tennessee, following a short illness.

He was born August 1, 1937, in Ashland, the son of the late Charles “Russ” Stewart and Alice Fultz Stewart. In addition to his parents, his brother, Charles “Stick” Stewart and a sister, Sue Moon, preceded him death and he has one living sister, Lorla Boswell, of Nashville, TN.

He graduated from Ashland High School and received his B. S. and MBA degrees from the University of Kentucky and Marshall University, respectively. He also completed the General Management Course for Executives at Harvard University. Michael retired as Senior Vice President and CFO of Anthony International, located in Los Angeles, CA. He was a lifetime member of the Presbyterian Church, serving as a Deacon, Elder, Trustee, Treasurer and Clerk of Session. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Gallatin, TN. He was a life member of the UK Alumni Association, as well as a member of the Marshall University Alumni Association, a Kentucky Colonel & their Legion of 1792, and an Admiral in the Cherry River Navy. He was also a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, Elks Club, Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, Bellefonte Country Club, Mound Builders Country Club, Wood Ranch Golf Club, the Princeton Club, and the Petroleum Clubs of Tulsa, OK and Mobile, AL.

Michael loved listening music and watching the University of Kentucky Wildcats. He loved to travel. Over his lifetime, he had the opportunity to visit six continents, all fifty states and sixty-five countries. He was enormously proud of this achievement.

He is survived by his wife Michelle Peters Stewart of Gallatin, TN and five children; two sons and three daughters, Phillip Stewart and his wife Ellie of Woodbridge, CT, Robert Stewart and his wife Kristi of Chicago, IL, Connelly Stewart, of Frederick, MD, Merritt Reston and her husband Michael of New York City, NY and Catherine Stewart of Gallatin, TN; and seven grandchildren, Jackson and Charlie Silverman, Lola Connelly Reston, Harris Ligon, Sally Jane, Graeme William and Harriet Ann Stewart.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Ashland, Kentucky 41101

Arrangements entrusted to Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 584 Nashville Pike, Gallatin. (615) 502-0011 Online condolences can be left at www.AlexanderGallatin.com

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07/10/2026

April Renee Grisham

April Renee Grisham, 43, of Brush Creek, Tennessee, passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, in Lebanon, Tennessee. Born April 20, 1983, in Gallatin, she was the daughter of her birth mother Barbara Gibbs and the late Jerry and Margaret Russell. April’s passing leaves a profound sense of loss in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

April was a beacon of warmth, positivity, and kindness throughout her life. Her personality was infectious—she had a gift for brightening any room she entered and made her home a place of joy and comfort, reflecting her impeccable taste in decorating. Friends and family fondly recall how beautifully put together she always was; her attention to detail shone through not just in her appearance, but in the loving way she curated her surroundings.

April was a fighter and showed amazing strength as she took on cancer and helped her husband fight cancer as well. It was April who would often be uplifting her family and trying to bring comfort to them as she fought on.

A passionate animal lover, April cherished all creatures, extending her gentle spirit to every animal she encountered. Her affinity for the outdoors was well known—she delighted in tending to her plants and found great peace at the beach, appreciating nature’s beauty in all its forms.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter Taylor Shae Grisham.

April's legacy is carried on by her loving husband, David Grisham, and her cherished son, Tyler (Brianna) Grisham. She is also survived by her devoted sisters, Angela (Cameron) Evans and Amanda (Brandon) Christian; and her nieces and nephews: Courtney Gammons, Corrine (Jon) Blair, Cody (McKayla) Gammons, Colton Gammons, Dillon Lannom, and Tanner (Macy) Lannom, who will all dearly miss her radiant presence and uplifting spirit.

April embodied positivity and lived each day with gratitude and grace. Her memory will live on in the lives she touched, providing a lasting example of compassion and vitality.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 584 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066. A Celebration of Life will follow at the same location, beginning at 3:00 PM and concluding at 4:00 PM. Those attending are invited to wear purple, honoring April’s memory in a way she would have loved.

Monetary donations can be made to Angela Evans’ VenMo at

April’s light will continue to inspire all who knew her, and her kindness and exuberance will remain in the hearts of her friends and family forever.

Arrangements entrusted to Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Gallatin. (615) 502-0011 Online condolences can be left at www.AlexanderGallatin.com

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