Obituaries

Leland D. Sayers

Leland D. Sayers went home to Jesus on March 3, 2024, in Louisville, Tennessee. Born on June 3, 1933, in Coleman, Michigan. Leland spent his life in sales and building successful businesses. Married to Lillian Sayers until her heavenly departure in 1996, he later married Jo Moran, enjoying retirement in Lakeland, Florida. He was an active member of the Gideons in East Tennessee and served as an elder at Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church. As the first in his family to graduate from college, Leland pursued a successful career in energy conservation and home improvement, inspiring all four of his children to follow in his business-related footsteps. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Foster and Fern Sayers; his first wife, Lillian; siblings, Burt Sayers and Hilda Laudeman; and his dear friend Homer Jackson. He is survived by his four children, Laura, Kendall (Debbie), Roger (Laura and Stephen (Diane); 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Also survived by his brother and sister, Bud Sayers and Foora Sayers, and sister-in-law, Shirley Sayers. The family extends gratitude to the staff of Autumn Care in Farragut and Lifecare of Blount County for their exceptional care. A celebration of Life followed by visitation will be held beginning at 1 p.m., Saturday, March 23, in the main sanctuary at Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church, with visitation immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations be made to Gideons International at www.gideons.org

Walter “Walt” B. Bigney

Walter “Walt” B. Bigney, aged 86, born in Flint, Michigan, went home to be with the Lord Monday, Feb. 25, in Knoxville. Walt, a steadfast husband to his wife, Carolyn, leaves behind a legacy of integrity and love. He was a guiding force in the lives of his sons, Brian (Judith), Brad (Vicki) and Brent (Autumn), and a pillar of strength to his siblings, Kathleen, Rita and Dave. His grandchildren, Josh (Haley), Lauren (Steven), Austin, Harrison (Sarina), Kelley (Ryan), Garrett, Sarah (Blake), Maclaine, Caleb, Breslyn and Caeden, along with his great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Baylor, Brady, Blair, Jack and Emmaline, will carry forward his memory. Walt was preceded in death by his parents, Walter L.K. Bigney and Ethyl A. Bigney, and his sister, Marie. A proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Walt’s service to his country was a prelude to a distinguished career as a nuclear engineer in Oak Ridge. His scholarly pursuits at the University of Michigan laid the groundwork for thoughtful inquiry and professional excellence. Walt’s deep-rooted faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior was the compass by which he navigated life, finding joy and solace in the study of the Bible and the wonders of God’s creation. He was an avid outdoorsman, with a passion for camping, hiking and canoeing. His love for the foreign languages, space study and teaching English as a second language were reflections of his commitment to lifelong learning. The Bigney family invites friends and loved ones to honor Walt’s memory Saturday, March 2, at Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church along Kingston Pike. Visitation will commence at 1 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m. Walt’s life, a testament to devotion, service and faith, will be remembered with fondness and respect by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cedar Springs Missions department.

Retired Army Col. Louis Joseph LaMarche Jr.

Retired Army Col. Louis Joseph LaMarche Jr., age 88 of Farragut, passed away Saturday, Feb, 24. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle, cousin, grandfather and great grandfather who loved his faith, his family, his beloved city of Farragut, his Clemson Tigers and being a competitive runner. He will be missed by all who knew him. Lou was born to the late Louis Joseph LaMarche Sr. and wife, Emma Helen (Faccenda) LaMarche in Worcester, Massachusetts. He spent his formative years in Charleston, South Carolina and graduated from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering, which prepared Lou for his 42-year career in the paper industry. Lou holds a U.S. Patent (4569069) for Drainage Profile Tests for papermaking. Lou became very involved in his Farragut Community, where he spent 15 years serving on the Board of Zoning Appeals as well as the Visual Resources Review Board. He was the first man in the National League of Cities to receive the “Stand By Your Spouse” Award. He spoke at schools and clubs portraying Admiral Farragut for the Town of Farragut and represented him in the Independence Day Parade for many years. Lou served as the chairman of the Farragut Museum Committee and Docent of the Farragut Museum. For eight years he was a member of Senior Citizen Awareness Network. He served on the Patient/Family Advisory Council at Tennova Hospital and he proudly graduated from the Knox County Sheriff’s Academy and the Citizens Fire and EMS Academy. Lou also was a member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church. Lou was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Lewis Nathanson. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Mary Dorothy Hughes; children and spouses, Michelle LaMarche Smith (Jaimie), Therese LaMarche Jones (Lane) and Denise LaMarche Heaney (Brian); grandchildren, Casey Michael Jones (Candace), Alexander Lane Jones, Bennett Patrick Heaney, Katherine Michelle Heaney, Matthew Louis Heaney and Cameron Grace Heaney; great-grandchildren, Amelia Grey Jones and Max Graham Jones; sisters and brother-in-law, Carol LaMarche Nathanson and Barbara LaMarche Holst and husband, Tom. The family requests in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of his favorite charities: Tunnels to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org), Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org) or to Tennessee Right to Life (www.tnrtl.org). The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 29, in Click Funeral Home Chapel, Farragut. A Rosary Ceremony will be held beginning at 7 p.m., Feb. 29. A Funeral Mass will be held beginning at 9:30 a.m., Friday, March 1, in St. John Neumann Catholic Church. Graveside service will be held beginning at 3 p.m. (CST), 4 p.m. (EST), at Calvary Cemetery, Nashville.

Tamara Lynn Mazzetti

Tamara Lynn Mazzetti (July 23, 1960-Jan. 11, 2024) Tamara Mazzetti, 63, a long-time resident of Knoxville, Tennessee, passed away unexpectedly Jan. 11, 2024, while surrounded by her life partner, Jeffrey Fields, and other loved ones.  Tamara was originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the second born to August and Bette Mazzetti. Along with her beloved brother, Larry, the family relocated to Cape Canaveral, Florida. Their father, August, was a Smithsonian-awarded NASA engineer. Bette was a stay-at-home mother to her two children. The family moved to Knoxville, where August worked for TVA. Tamara graduated from both Doyle High School and with Magna Cum Laude honors from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a degree in psychology in 1997. Tamara loved writing and acting, and was an on-air talent for Jewelry Television for more than a decade. She partnered in a metal fabrication company with her then life partner of 20-plus years, Ronald Tourte. Sadly, Ron lost a battle with cancer. Tamara took care of him, as well as her mother, Bette, who succumbed to Alzheimer’s. Through many hardships and losses, Tamara was able to persevere with the help of her beloved Chihuahua, Rio, and her long-time friend Dr. Jeffrey Fields. Tamara and Jeff reconnected in 2015 and were life partners for the remainder of her life. Rio was her best friend — and in Jeff’s words, “if you knew Tamara you knew Rio!” It was with great sorrow that she lost Rio in 2022 at 13 years of age. Tamara led a remarkable life. From her obvious external beauty to her kind heart, she was a light to all who knew her. She would take wounded birds to UT Vet Hospital, and no bug would have an undignified passing on her watch. One of her favorite events was a fundraiser for Tiger Haven in Kingston, Tennessee. Tamara personally brought the fabulous Tippi Hedren in as guest for the event. Something she was rightfully very proud of: After Rio passed away, she and Jeff became accidental parents to a family of kitties. Perfectly Tamara. Tamara had such empathy for animals and people. Always trying to lift the spirits of those in need — be it with a kind word, a handwritten letter or a small gift to show how much she cared — it is only fitting that her final gift will go to those who will never have the chance to know her. Organ donation meant so much to Tamara, and she truly wanted to do good even after she was no longer on this earth.  Tamara was preceded in death by her parents, August and Elizabeth, and her brother, Lawrence (Larry).   She is survived by an aunt, Rose Stasny, several cousins, dear friends and the love of her life, Dr. Jeff Fields.   A Celebration of Life will be held in Click Funeral Home in Farragut, Tennessee, beginning at 4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 27. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Young-Williams Animal Center, Tennessee Donor Services or to your worship center of choice.

John Edward Sicard, age 90,

was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on Nov. 10, 1933. But you can call him Jack. He was born to Arthur Raymond and Clemencia Mae Sicard, née Miller, and grew up in Metairie with his siblings with whom he is now reunited: sister, Carol Blythe (Donald); brother, Raymond (Joan); and twin, Charles (Cynthia). At this point, Jack would have reminded us that he, Jack, was the better-looking twin. They took turns. Jack graduated from Ridgewood Prep in Metairie, having met the great love of his life, Marilyn Jean Sicard, née Munster, at Metairie Grammar in the fifth grade. They would share 70 years of wedded bliss, growing a life together. After they were married, Jack served as Skipper of a Coast Guard rescue boat during the Korean War. When he left the Coast Guard, he matriculated into Tulane University, where he graduated in 1963 with a Master of Architecture degree and a mission to build. He began by building his family with wife, Jean. Daughters, Cynthia, Tamara and Melissa were born, as was his small practice. Jack designed buildings across New Orleans, most importantly a home for his own growing family. Jack built a career in design and construction management, which took his family to Dunwoody, Georgia. Over the years he also built furniture, boats and toys for his children. He even “rebuilt” doodle bugs. We’re still not sure how. Jack’s career then took the family to Southern California. After several years in corporate architecture, Jack landed in the University of California system, serving first at UC Irvine and then at UCLA as director of Capital Programs Project Management. Eventually Jack and Jean made their move to Tennessee, which allowed Jack the opportunity to not only continue his executive role, but also fulfill his passion for teaching at the University of Tennessee. Finally, Jack retired, but only briefly. Dear friends Michael and Romaine Evans asked Jack to help build a new division within their existing business as vice president of Construction for GEM Technologies. Jack and Jean’s family continued to build throughout their journey with the addition of Thomas Baynham and Sue Long. The family built again, adding two more bright women: granddaughters, Kate Baynham and Megan Chang (daughter of Melissa Sicard and John Chang, Div.). Even this past year, the family was building with the marriage of Megan to her husband, Campbell Casseb. Over the years, Jack built more toys, more playhouses and yet another home for his family on a peaceful cove overlooking Lake Loudoun in Knoxville. He designed it with care and a curated space for his much-loved mother-in-law, Lucile (Nanny), and room for the whole family and a select few very special dogs. Jack was a sailor, a pilot, an artist, a mentor, a friend, a son, a brother, a husband, a father and a Papa Jack. He also is survived by several beloved nieces and nephews. He was loved so much in this world and built so much within it; his legacy is unfathomable. On Nov. 27, 2023, Jack Sicard passed away in his home in Knoxville, having just listened joyfully to Pete Fountain’s “When the Saints Go Marching In.” The family wishes to thank the caring professionals from Parkwest Hospice, as well as Clay Harrington and Michele and Eric Leaver for their pastoral care and friendship. A memorial service will be held beginning at 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, at in the chapel at Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church, Knoxville. Pastor Clay Harrington will be presiding.

Richard Bennett McConnell

Richard Bennett McConnell — aka Dick McConnell, aka “The Judge” — was a brilliant man, beloved father, friend and mentor who was born May 24, 1935, in Lake Bluff, Illinois near Chicago. The Judge passed away Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2023, joining his youngest son, the family’s beloved Johnny, who also passed on Christmas Eve, 2009 — both at 12:30 p.m. The family moved to Milwaukee, where Dick attended Bay View High School, earning the moniker “The Human Encyclopedia.” Dick was a four-sport letterman at Bay View in football, basketball, baseball and track. Upon graduation, Dick joined the U.S. Army and earned the G.I. Bill, achieving Expert with the M1 Carbine rifle. Upon discharge, Dick finished his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. Soon thereafter he got into a fender bender right in front of the Milwaukee Courthouse. The other driver was a lawyer in town and Dick was blamed, wrongfully he assured. That’s the day the future judge declared “never again, I’m going to law school!” He did so on his own dime, no loans. Upon law school graduation from Marquette University, Dick worked for Procter & Gamble, then returned to Milwaukee, practicing law as a trial attorney. In 1970, he campaigned and won Waukesha County District Attorney, serving two terms while amassing a record 12 or 13 homicide convictions, one hung jury. Several neighboring counties appointed him Special Prosecutor to handle high-profile cases. After returning to private law practice, Dick moved his family to Knoxville in 1980, where he began as Assistant Attorney General for Knox County. That same year, the Town of Farragut, where he resided, was incorporated and appointed Dick as its first Town Judge. Then, after practicing in a private law practice and holding monthly court for 10 years, the Judge was appointed under President George H.W. Bush in 1990 to Administrative Law Judge with the Social Security Department, presiding over hearings though 2000. The Judge also joined the Army Reserves, achieving the rank of major while providing legal counsel. Upon retirement, the Judge continued part-time law practice, specializing in helping clients obtain Social Security Disability. In addition to wonderful family vacations, the Judge enjoyed tennis with the Village Green club, golf at Fox Den Country Club, bowling, racquetball, fishing, billiards, bocce, snowmobiling and, of course, grilling. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary (Mitchell) McConnell; brothers, Bart, Bob, Ansley, Malcolm; sister, Ann; son, John. Survived by brother, Don McConnell; son, Steve McConnell (Jayme); daughter, Suzanne Purcell (Michael); son, Joe McConnell (Lyn); daughter, Martha Looney (Michael); along with grandchildren, Morgan, Erin, August, Lucy, Patrick, Miriam, Claire. Special thanks to the Judge’s irreplaceable caregivers, Calvin and Linda Gaskey, who provided outstanding and loving care in their own home. Special thanks also to the amazing staff at Ben Atchley Veterans Home, absolutely world-class care. A funeral Mass will be held beginning at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 6, in St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 633 St. John Count in Farragut. Receiving of Friends begins at 10 a.m. in the church. Graveside service with Military Honors immediately following at Pleasant Forest Cemetery, 401 Concord Road in Farragut. In lieu of flowers, make donations to Special Olympics.

Joe Pacia

Joe Pacia passed away peacefully Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023, at the age of 83. Joe and his wife, Pat, made East Tennessee home for the last 20 years. One of Joe’s favorite spots to spend time was Willow Creek Golf Club, where he worked and played. It was his second home. Joe was born and raised in Niagara Falls, New York, the son of the late Antony and Antonina Pacia. Joe primarily spoke Polish and attended Polish school until junior high. With the help of a teacher, he successfully transitioned to English. He graduated from Niagara Falls High School in 1959. Joe served in the U.S. Army and Reserves from 1961 into 1975. After an Honorable Discharge, he returned home and married Rebecca Good and started a family. Joe spent more than 30 years employed with the Exchange (also known as the Army and Air Force Exchange Service). With his strong management and people skills, Joe worked his way into upper management in Services and Contracting. He liked helping people with their tax returns and worked for H&R Block for many years in retirement. Joe’s interests included hunting, when younger, and traveling for work and pleasure. Recent road trips included Natchez Trace Parkway one year and Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway another. One of his passions was golf. Through the years he developed into a competitive golfer. He was happy on a golf course or watching it on TV. Joe’s other passion was family and supporting his grandchildren’s activities. Family and friends were important to Joe. He valued each relationship. In addition to his parents, Joe was predeceased by his first wife, Rebecca Good Pacia. Joe is survived by his wife of 40 years, Patricia Pacia; his daughters, Deborah Chumney (James), Christina Pacia and Patricia Sager. He is survived by grandchildren, Kim Schmitt (Tim), Nick Taylor, Hannah Campbell (Jake) and Rebecca Sager. He also is survived by great-grandchildren Alice and Lily Schmitt. A memorial celebration of life will take place at a future date. Contributions in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society. For online condolences, visit rosefuneraltn.com.

Laura Madge Maples

Laura Madge Maples, 68, of Villa Hills, Kentucky, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, at her residence. She was a retired pharmacist with Nie’s Pharmacy, Thriftway, Rite Aid and Remke Biggs. Laura participated in the founding and ongoing operation of the Kenton Paw Park at Pioneer Park in Covington, Kentucky, and also was involved in Puppy Tails, a program at Kenton County Libraries in Northern Kentucky to help children learn to read by reading to dogs. She enjoyed her five labrador retrievers, all certified-therapy dogs. Laura graduated from Notre Dame Academy in Northern Kentucky in 1973 and graduated at the top of the Dean’s List in the University of Kentucky Pharmacy School with a Bachelor of Science degree. She was preceded in death by her father, Gregory K. Maples Sr; and brother, Gregory K. Maples Jr. Survivors include her mother, Barbara Bays Maples of Farragut, Tennessee; sister, Elizabeth (Beth) Maples of Farragut; best friend, Scott Mattingly of Villa Hills; and her black lab, Java. Services have been held. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Homeward Bound Animal Rescue, Levi Turner, 3856, Tator Know Road, Peebles, Ohio, 45660.