Community members honoring the lives of Brianna and Edward in a beautiful memorial service.
Chattanooga comes together to mourn Brianna Ne’Shae Harmon, 25, and Edward Thomas Papson Jr., who passed away this year. Families and friends are celebrating their lives and sharing memories in the face of immense loss. Both individuals are remembered for their kindness, love, and lasting impact on the community, inspiring those who knew them to cherish moments of joy and togetherness.
The beautiful city of Chattanooga is coming together to mourn and celebrate the lives of two cherished individuals taken too soon from this world. With heavy hearts, families and friends are sharing memories and offering comfort as they process the loss of Brianna Ne’Shae Harmon and Edward Thomas Papson Jr.
At just 25 years old, Brianna Ne’Shae Harmon left us far too early. She passed away on October 10, 2024, in her hometown of Chattanooga. Born on December 4, 1998, Brianna was the beloved daughter of Alexia Taylor and Carvin Harmon. Her family and friends remember her as a bright light, full of laughter and kindness.
Brianna graduated from The Chattanooga School in 2017, where she made lasting friendships and memories that would warm her heart forever. Her passion for life and her vibrant personality didn’t go unnoticed as she touched the lives of everyone around her. Though her time here was short, her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her.
On August 19, 2024, the community lost a true gentleman, Edward Thomas Papson Jr., affectionately known as “Tom” or “Tommy.” He passed away peacefully at his home in Maryville, TN. Tom was born on January 7, 1951, to Dorothea and Edward Thomas Papson Sr. His roots in Chattanooga ran deep, as he was a lifelong resident of the city.
Tom was not just a husband and father; he was a loving family man. He and his wife, Kathy Reid-Papson, shared incredible moments throughout their journey together, raising their children: Mena Papson, Minda Papson Begley, and PT Papson. Tom’s legacy lives on through his grandchildren, Layla and Bella Papson, and Brooks and Bash Begley. Each of them carries a piece of his heart and spirit.
A proud alumnus of City High School, Tom graduated in 1969 and furthered his education at UT-Chattanooga. He was known for his hard work, unwavering dedication to his family, and his involved presence in the community.
Tom’s family is organizing a Celebration of Life to honor his memory this Fall in Chattanooga, with details set to be announced soon. It will be an opportunity for friends and loved ones to gather and share their favorite stories and memories of Tom.
As the family navigates through this difficult time, they express heartfelt gratitude for the compassionate care provided by Hospice of Chattanooga and the UT Medical Center Hospice in Knoxville/Maryville. It is small gestures like these that help to heal a grieving heart.
In lieu of flowers, they kindly request memorial contributions be directed to the Chattanooga Rescue Mission. This option allows friends and family to honor Tom’s legacy by supporting an essential service that helps many in the community.
Both Brianna and Tom will be deeply missed by the countless lives they touched. Their impact on the Chattanooga community is undeniable, and their memories will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them. As the sun sets and the city begins to hold its breath in sadness, let us remember the laughter, love, and light that these two incredible individuals brought to our lives.
Chattanooga, let’s come together to celebrate the lives of Brianna and Tom – may they rest in peace.
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