News Summary
Chattanooga reflects on the lives of remarkable individuals who have made a lasting impact on the community. From dedicated deacons to loving family members, their stories are woven into the fabric of our city. Join us in remembering these cherished figures as we celebrate their legacies and the joy they brought to those around them.
Honoring the Lives We’ve Lost: Remembering Notable Figures from Chattanooga and Nearby Areas
Chattanooga’s Community Champions
Chattanooga is embracing a moment of reflection and honor as we remember several remarkable people who enriched our lives in various ways. Each individual left their mark on our city, whether through their community service, family ties, or professions. As we celebrate their lives, let’s take a moment to delve deeper into their stories.
Bernard Renfroe, Sr.: A Faithful Deacon
Born on February 25, 1959, Bernard Renfroe, Sr. was a cherished member of the Chattanooga community. He was the beloved son of the late Willie C. Tyree and Patricia Renfroe. Known for his dedication to service, Bernard served as a deacon at New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, where he played a vital role in nourishing the spiritual lives of many. His legacy of faith and commitment to his community will surely not be forgotten.
Remembering Ruby Kate Albritton Pangle
Just recently, the community bid farewell to Ruby Kate Albritton Pangle, who passed away at the age of 90 on March 18. Growing up in McMinn County, Tennessee, Ruby had spent her later years in Cleveland but was well-known and well-loved in Etowah. Her life was filled with love and family, bringing joy to those lucky enough to know her.
A Life Full of Service: Yancey Thomas, Jr.
Another heartwarming story comes from the life of Yancey Thomas, Jr., born on November 8, 1955, in Chattanooga. He was the son of Yancey Thomas Sr. and Fannie Mae Mitchell Thomas. Sadly, Yancey passed away on March 3, 2025. His contributions to our community and the warmth he shared with everyone he met will be fondly remembered by those who called him friend.
A Tale of Dedication: Karen Heintz Gamble
The life of Karen Heintz Gamble, who passed away at the age of 81 on February 9, 2025, tells a story of dedication and resilience. Originally from Baltimore, she made her way through various states—living in New York before attending Westminster College in Pennsylvania. After marrying Richard Gamble, she taught primary school and even delved into a career in medical record coding. Karen’s nurturing spirit will live on through her children, Ben Gamble and Jennifer Dennis who carry forward her legacy of kindness.
The Incredible Journey of Bobby Joe Frazier
Meanwhile, we reflect on the notable life of Bobby Joe Frazier, who passed away at the grand age of 95 on January 26, 2025. A proud graduate of Tennessee Polytechnic Institute, Bobby dedicated nearly three decades of his life to Dupont before retiring. His enduring love for his wife, Norma Frazier, with whom he shared 70 wonderful years of marriage, is a testament to their beautiful journey together. Bobby is also remembered by his niece, Renee Frazier, from Harrison, Tennessee.
A Short Yet Bright Life: Victoria “Veka” Sukhanov
Finally, we lovingly remember Victoria “Veka” Sukhanov, who left us far too soon at the age of 34 in December 2023. Having been born in October of 1989 in Chattanooga, Veka’s spirit still shines brightly through her family and siblings. Although her time with us was brief, the impact of her life will not be forgotten.
Community Celebration
As we mourn these great losses, let us celebrate the lives of these individuals who were remarkable in their own unique ways. They were more than just names; they were people connected to our community. Their families and friends remain in our thoughts and prayers, as we enjoy the memories that live on in our hearts. Thank you for sharing in this moment of remembrance as we honor those who have enriched our community and moved on to their next adventure.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Chattanooga Community Honors Beloved Lives Lost
Chattanooga Veterans Celebrate Love and Kindness on Valentine’s Day
Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of Sheila Lynn Brown Clark
Chattanooga’s Traffic Trouble: Revealing the Inconvenient Truth
Recent Obituaries: Remembering Chattanooga’s Notables
Chattanooga Community Mourns the Loss of Omah Romanchick
Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Bernard Renfroe, Sr.
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Chattanoogan: Karen Heintz Gamble
- Google Search: Chattanooga community news
- Chattanoogan: Bobby Joe Frazier
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga history
- Chattanoogan: Victoria “Veka” Sukhanov
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga Tennessee
- Chattanoogan: Brenda Ann Neighbors
- Google News: Chattanooga
