News Summary
Signal Mountain, Tennessee, mourns the loss of cherished community members including John K. Tucknott, Kirk Hall Low, Jr., Eddie Mae Jones Burney, Anne Dragoo Ramsey, and Dr. Joseph ‘Pete’ Earl Kelley Jr. Friends and family are united in celebrating their lives and the significant impact they made. Various tributes and memorials are planned to honor their legacies and contributions to the community.
Loving Community Comes Together to Remember Cherished Residents
Signal Mountain, Tennessee has recently experienced the profound loss of several beloved members of our community. Each of these individuals brought warmth, kindness, and a unique spirit to our lives, making their passing all the more poignant. Families, friends, and neighbors are uniting to remember their remarkable stories and the indelible marks they left on our hearts.
Remembering John K. Tucknott
One such cherished resident was John K. Tucknott, who passed away peacefully at the age of 78 on March 23, 2025. Fondly remembered as a devoted husband, John was married to his beloved wife, Pat Tucknott (nee Pietrie), for an incredible 54 years. Together, they built a family full of love and laughter. John was a proud father to three children: Jean Pahl, Kathy (Randy) Voorhees, and Michael.
The Legacy of Kirk Hall Low, Jr.
Another heartwarming story is that of Kirk Hall Low, Jr., who left us on March 21, 2025. Kirk, originally from Tullahoma, Tennessee, was born on December 2, 1948, to Emmy Louise Butikofer Low and Kirk Hall Low. His journey led him to Signal Mountain, where he was loved by many. His memory will persist in the laughter and smiles of those who knew him.
A Tribute to Eddie Mae Jones Burney
On March 16, 2025, our community said goodbye to the sweet and gentle Eddie Mae Jones Burney, who transitioned to her heavenly home at the age of 91. Surrounded by her loving family, Eddie Mae was born on October 21, 1933, in Cartersville, Tennessee. Her life was filled with the warmth of family and cherished moments that will not be forgotten. Her family will always hold her close in their hearts.
The Colorful Life of Anne Dragoo Ramsey
We also remember the vibrant and creative spirit of Anne Dragoo Ramsey, who passed away on September 18, 2024. Born in Chattanooga and raised among the old-town gang of Signal Mountain, Anne’s flair for fashion led her on a remarkable journey. After attending fashion school in Atlanta, she became a talented fashion designer, bringing stunning creations to life, including her whimsical life-sized festive animals. Her entrepreneurial spirit thrived as she founded Lines Slippers, enchanting customers in prestigious stores like Nordstrom and Macy’s.
Not one to stand still, Anne explored cities such as New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Charleston, SC, and loved traveling worldwide. While she cherished many cultures and experiences, she maintained a special affection for France and the French language. In her late forties, Anne found love in the arms of her husband, Gary Ramsey. Together, they enjoyed a beautiful life filled with adventures.
A Legacy of Care: Dr. Joseph “Pete” Earl Kelley Jr.
Last but certainly not least, we honor the legacy of Dr. Joseph “Pete” Earl Kelley Jr., who passed away on November 6, 2024, at the age of 64. A caring husband to JoEllen for 36 years and a dedicated father to three daughters, Pete was known for his compassion during his 26 years as a pediatric surgeon at Erlanger Hospital. A true advocate for children, he devoted his life to his practice and patients.
Graduating from high school at only 16, Pete earned his medical degree from the ETSU Quillen College of Medicine and completed a fellowship in Pediatric Surgery at Miami Children’s Hospital. He was also an integral part of the Medical Society of Chattanooga and served as an associate professor at Erlanger Hospital.
Coming Together to Celebrate Lives
As our community reflects on these wonderful lives, each unique individual will always be remembered for their love, contributions, and kindness. Those who wish to honor Anne Dragoo Ramsey can contribute in her memory to the Sierra Club of Tennessee. A celebration of her life is set for September 28, 2024, at Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church.
For Dr. Pete Kelley, details regarding a celebration of his life will be shared in the future. In lieu of flowers, donations to Project Access would be greatly appreciated to continue his legacy of caring for others.
In these moments of loss, our community rallies together, supporting one another in our shared grief. We remember and celebrate the beautiful lives of John, Kirk, Eddie Mae, Anne, and Pete. They may be gone from our sight, but their spirits will remain in our hearts forever.
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Additional Resources
- Heritage Chattanooga: Clyde Edward Lee
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Williamson & Sons: Anne Ramsey
- Google Search: Obituaries
- Companion Funerals: Joseph Kelley
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Grief
- Times Free Press: Lee Fritch
- Google News: Community Obituaries
- Times Free Press: John Puckett
- Google Scholar: Family Loss
