Claire “Linda” Smith, 81, of Tullahoma passed away peacefully as the snow began to fall in the early morning hours of Jan. 10, 2025, with her husband Fred, her son Greg, and daughter-in-law Carol by her side as well as her loving caregiver Lauren. Linda was born, lived most of her life and died on the same road that she deeply loved in rural Coffee County.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Daisy Tucker, her brothers Donald Tucker, Sr. and Oscar Tucker, Jr.” Buddy”.

Linda is survived by her husband of 63 years, Fred Smith; her son Greg Smith (Carol) of Tullahoma, TN; her grandson’s Shane Smith (Sarah) of Maryville, and Dylan Smith (Evan) of Maryville; her granddaughter Abby Smith of Tullahoma; and her great grandchildren Luke, James, Waylyn and Walker Smith.

Linda was a 1961 graduate of Coffee County Central High School. She worked at Arnold Air Force Base for 38 years before retiring in 2007. She received multiple awards during her career including a Technical Achievement award in 1992.

Linda was “Nana” to her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and she was extremely proud of them all.

Linda loved animals, especially her beloved cat Tommy who was very spoiled. Tommy was Linda’s shadow and could be found curled up by her side most of the day.

Visitation for Mrs. Smith will be held on Friday, Jan. 17 from noon to 2 p.m. at Kilgore Funeral Home. Funeral services will immediately follow at 2 p.m. in the Kilgore Funeral Home chapel with Terry Weaver officiating. Burial will follow at Concord Cemetery.

Kilgore Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Tullahoma News – Jan. 16, 2025