Obituaries

Dr David Mack Fouts

Dr. David Mack Fouts

Jan 1, 1952 — Jul 24, 2026

Sparta, TN

 

Dr. David Mack Fouts, age 74 (Jan. 1, 1952 – July 24, 2026), entered the presence of his Savior after a life marked by unwavering faith, devoted scholarship, and deep love for his family. His greatest passion was Jesus Christ and the study and teaching of God’s Word. His life was a testimony to his belief that knowing Scripture transforms lives, and he dedicated himself to helping others grow in their understanding of the Bible.

Dr. Fouts earned his Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1992 and faithfully served as a professor at Dallas Theological Seminary and Bryan College, where he influenced countless students through his wisdom, humor, and love for teaching. He also led archaeological study tours to Israel, bringing the history and geography of the Bible to life for those who traveled with him.

An accomplished author, Dr. Fouts wrote two books and was respected for his thoughtful scholarship and commitment to biblical truth. Beyond academia, he enjoyed a lifelong fascination with numismatics. He served as Bourse Chairman of the coin clubs in Knoxville, Cookeville, Dayton, and Crossville. He owned a coin shop on the square in McMinnville, Courthouse Emporium, for several years, where he shared his knowledge and enthusiasm with collectors and friends alike.

David loved to travel, always eager to experience new places and cultures. Yet some of his happiest moments were spent at home, surrounded by those he loved. Family game nights were treasured traditions filled with laughter, friendly competition, and lasting memories. He loved each member of his family deeply, and nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his grandchildren and his precious great-granddaughter, RaeLynn.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 15 years, Esther Luna Cash; his children from a previous marriage, estranged daughter Heidi (Justin Jones) of Soddy Daisy; grandson Jackson Carter Smith; granddaughters Mila Jones and Madelyn Jones; his beloved son, Jason Karl Fouts, of Chattanooga; his beloved stepdaughter, Leanne Cash, and her children, Cameron Havener (Jordan), Rylan Havener, Ellie Havener, great-granddaughter RaeLynn Havener; and his stepson, Jason Cash. He also leaves behind many extended family members, dear friends, former students, colleagues, and all whose lives were enriched by his teaching and example.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Willard Eugene Fouts and Patsy Fouts Cocklin (Dale); and his sister, Kathleen Towell. His beloved younger sisters, Nancy Rolen (Craig) and Susan Towell (Ivan), live in Texas. Their children and grandchildren were also deeply loved by Uncle David.

Dr. Fouts will be remembered for his brilliant mind, generous heart, adventurous spirit, contagious love of learning, and steadfast devotion to Christ. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the students he mentored, the family he cherished, and the enduring truth of God’s Word that he so faithfully proclaimed. He will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved him.

He is home now….

Matthew 25:21

“His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”

Robert Cecil Rodriguez

Robert Cecil Rodriguez

Jan 22, 1943 — May 10, 2026

Robert Cecil Rodriguez, 83, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on January 22, 1943, in Hondo, Texas, Robert was the beloved son of the late Cecil Cortez Rodriguez and Antoinette Pena Rodriguez. He grew up with strong values of hard work, dedication, and family that would guide him throughout his life.

After graduating from high school, Robert proudly served his country by joining the United States Air Force. Following his retirement from the Air Force, he continued his hardworking spirit by opening his own business, Wellston Gold & Silver, in 1980. As a respected precious metals dealer, Robert built not only a successful business, but also a lasting legacy that he proudly passed on to his family. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge of precious metals with family, friends, and customers, always eager to educate others about something he truly loved.

Robert had a lifelong passion for collecting coins and treasured the history and stories behind each piece. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing and spending quiet moments outdoors. Above all else, Robert was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from the people he loved. He was known as a hard worker, a provider, and someone who always put his family first.

Robert’s memory will live on through the many lives he touched with his wisdom, generosity, and love. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

His memory will forever be treasured by his daughter, Michele Rodriguez-Taylor; grandson, Jalen Taylor; great-grandson, Nixon Taylor; nephew, Aaron Ragins; son-in-law, Baxter Taylor; and devoted family friends and caregivers, Robin Hammond, Teresa Aguillon Olvera and Tracey Garcia, who cared for him with compassion and love.

Daniel Keith Moore

Daniel Keith Moore

May 21, 1961 – January 31, 2026

Daniel Keith Moore, 64, of Monroe Michigan, passed away on January 31, 2026.
He was born on May 21,1961 in Wyandotte to Jerry and Ruth (Eicholtz) Moore.
He graduated from Monroe High School and attended Adrian College. He later went on to work for Carhart as a Web Developer.
Daniel never married. However, he was a loving Godfather to his Godson Christopher and was a daily presence in his life.
He was known for his humor, generosity, and devotion to his friends and family.
Daniel leaves behind his brothers: Ted Moore, Tim Moore, and Mike Moore. He also leaves behind his Godson Chrisopher Patterson-Mehki.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jerry Moore and his mother, Ruth Demming.

Michal Raymond Gonzalez

Michael “Gonzo” Gonzalez

Michael “Gonzo” Gonzalez, of Ringgold, Georgia, passed away on Friday, December 19, 2025, following a short battle with esophageal cancer.
Michael was born in the Bronx, New York, to Frank and Catherine Gonzalez. He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, whose presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Michael had a true love and passion for his work in coins and precious metals. He was the proud owner and operator of MK Precious Metals, where he built not only a business but lasting relationships. Outside of work, he greatly enjoyed playing darts and treasured the friendships formed through the game.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Michelle McCrary, and son, Matthew Gonzalez; his beloved grandchildren, Madyson, Jake, Rowdy, and Revielle; his sister, Lisa Gonzalez, and brother, Frank Gonzalez; his niece and nephew, Cate and Alex; along with many cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Cothran "Hugh" Shull, Jr.

Cothran “Hugh” Shull, Jr.

Nov 25 1951 – Dec 19, 2025

Cothran “Hugh” Shull Jr., 74, of Lexington passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family on December 19th, 2025. He was born November 25th, 1951 to the late Cothran H. Shull, Sr. and Dorothy Evetta Shull.

Hugh was an Air Force veteran who loved his country. He enjoyed his time in Thailand serving as Chief Base Cashier. After leaving the Air Force, he worked under the GI Bill for Mr. Weem’s Coin Shop in Gulfport, Mississippi. His love of coin collecting began at the age of seven. Through the coin shop, he learned about obsolete paper money. This became a 45+ year passion as a collector and dealer. He was very successful and was held in high esteem by his peers. Hugh was a life member of the American Numismatic Association, the Florida United Numismatists, charter member of the Professional Currency Dealers Association, and the South Carolina Numismatic Association, the last two of which he served many years on the governing board, and was a four-time past president in both. He was also a member of many other numismatic associations. In 1990, he was awarded the SCNA Most Outstanding Numismatist Award. In 1992, he was presented with a Numismatic Ambassador Award for his many contributions to the hobby. In 2007, he was awarded a Numismatic Literary Guild Award of Extraordinary Merit as well a PCDA Literary Award for his book “A Guide Book of Southern States Currency”. In 2018, Hugh was inducted into the Society of Paper Money Collectors Hall of Fame.  In 2020, he received an ANA Presidential Award for his dedicated service to “our numismatic family”. In 2024, he was inducted into the SCNA Hall of Fame.

Hugh loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and bass fishing. Later in life, he became an avid Corvette enthusiast, throwing back to having his first corvette at the age of 18. He was a member of the Capitol City Corvette Club where he served on the board and was a past president.

Hugh was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Martha; his very special daughter, Hailey Evetta; chosen family and Hailey’s “other Mother”, Tracy Jefferson; brother, T. Haskell Shull II (Diane); niece, Patricia Shull Padgett (Scott); nephew, J. Spencer Shull (Kelly); great-nieces, Abigail Padgett and Savanna Padgett; too many relatives by marriage to list who loved him dearly, as well as many friends who are like family.

William "Bill" Graves

William “Bill” Graves

Mar 4, 1948 – Nov 18, 2025

William Hamilton Graves, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, adventure, and unwavering love. Born on March 4, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, William grew up with a passion for sports, family, and learning—values that shaped his life and the lives of those around him.

A proud graduate of Western Illinois University, William earned his BA in Business Administration while continuing the athletic pursuits he loved, including playing football in both high school and college. His enthusiasm for sports would later become one of the many gifts he shared with his children.

William built a distinguished career as a Purchasing Director, lending his expertise and leadership to companies such as Johnson & Johnson, Starbucks, and Avery-Dennison. Known for his integrity and commitment, he earned the respect of colleagues and friends across decades of professional service.

Outside of work, William embraced life with curiosity and joy. He was an avid golfer and an enthusiastic SCUBA diver. He shared his love of sports with his sons, David and Michael, coaching their basketball, baseball, and soccer teams and teaching them the finer points of golf—lessons that became cherished family memories. His adventurous spirit led him across the world, and his love of travel reflected his eagerness to explore, learn, and appreciate the beauty of life.

Above all else, William loved his family deeply and wholeheartedly, and was truly blessed to share a wonderful life with his beautiful wife Mary for 58 years. He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Graves, and his sons, David and Michael and Monica, who will forever carry his guidance, humor, and compassion in their hearts. 

William’s life was defined by generosity, curiosity, and love. His presence will be profoundly missed and warmly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Val J Webb

Val J Webb

Jan 31, 1952 – Nov 14, 2025

Richard (Richie) Self

Richard Self (Richie)

Mar 21, 1962 – Jul 28, 2025

Richard Self (Richie), passed away in peace on July 28, 2025, in Shreveport, Louisiana, at the age of 63.

He was born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, on March 21, 1962, the youngest child of Marvin and Shirley Kerr Self. Richie led an active life, full of adventure. He was a Boy Scout and a graduate of the Outward Bound program. At the age of 16, he decided to take up flying and received his private pilot’s license. Richie also raced dirt bikes competitively for several years. He was an accomplished musician and played the violin, electric guitar, and piano. Richie loved animals, especially cats, and always had one or two cats as pets.
After a few semesters of college, Richie decided to follow his brother Doug to the oilfields. A few years later, he worked at various petrochemical plants before embarking on his life-defining career. Richie’s love of history led him to work for his oldest brother Malcolm in the coin and collectible business. As his knowledge grew, he moved to Shreveport in 1993 to open his own business, American Coins & Collectibles. Old currency and documents became his passion. He was extremely successful and traveled the world seeking hidden treasures and artifacts. Richie co-authored several books on bonds and currency and was well-respected by those in the numismatic community.
Richie is preceded in death by his wife, Rachel King-Self, and his mother Shirley. Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Audra Jean King-Self; father, Marvin Self; brother, Malcolm Self and wife, Donna; brother, Douglas Self and wife Cindy; sister, Melanie Self Gotreau and husband, Freddy; parents-in-law, William B. “Pete” and Christine King; sisters-in-law, Jill King, Jena Martino and husband, Thony, and Brande Miller; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would especially like to thank Amy Ricketts, Audra’s teacher, and her husband Kristofer, for their continuous love and support for the family, especially Audra.
An honorable mention goes to the American Coins & Collectibles staff, Derek Vinson, James Desabaye, Daniel Ramseur, Stephen Miller, and Philip Seaman, who were able to keep the company up and running smoothly during the last five months of Richie’s transition. With this incredible, experienced team, American Coins will serve the Shreveport community for years to come.
Richie’s story would not be complete without mentioning his tremendous sense of humor and the numerous pranks he pulled. Prime targets were family and business associates. No one was immune to his mischievousness. If someone missed a family gathering, they were the focus of Richie’s hijinks. There was no time limit on some gags and, if warranted, they went on for decades. He was a master at silly anonymous letters and phone calls. Even the person getting pranked had to laugh. Richie’s unique sense of humor will truly be missed.
Richie received outstanding care from the professionals at Willis Knighton Cancer Center. Special thanks go to Dr. Maxwell McDonald III and staff, Dr. Sanford Katz and staff, as well as the oncology nurses and staff; Dr. Thomas Pressly, Dr. Joseph Jones, and all the Willis Knighton Hospital staff who cared and prayed with Richie during his stay.
Two very special people also need to be mentioned. Not enough can be said about his best friend, Shane Russell, who stood by Richie with daily visits, and Sabrina Matheny, who helped with home care for Richie and Rachel for many years.

Michael E Mesaros

Michael Eugene Mesaros

Feb 25, 1974 – Sep 23, 2024

Michael Eugene Mesaros, age 50, of Savannah, passed away on Monday, September 23, 2024.
Born on February 25, 1974, in Savannah, Mr. Mesaros was a proud graduate of the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business and worked as a businessman. He attended Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church and School, as well as Savannah Christian High School.
Mr. Mesaros was preceded in death by his father, Anthony C. Mesaros, Jr., and his grandparents: Madeline and Gene Evans of Vidalia; Molly and Anthony C. Mesaros, Sr. of Savannah; and Mary Broderick Collins and husband John T. Collins of Savannah.
He is survived by his mother, Mary Catherine Mesaros; his brothers, John Mesaros (Dee Dee), David Mesaros (Stephanie), and Daniel Mesaros (Patricia); and a host of beloved nieces and nephews. He cherished every moment spent with Mark, Matthew (Anna), Mallory, Madeline, Emma, Maggie, Myles, Reid, Eli, Iain, and his great, nephew Magnus, and great niece Edith. Cousins are many and he enjoyed spending time with all, but Patrick Collins (Maria) was as close as any brother.
When not with his nieces and nephews, Michael loved spending time on the dock or out on the water. His fishing trips to Bimini and Guatemala were among his favorites, shared with many close friends. His music was a passion. The concerts, guitar pics, and stories are legendary. He made so many friendships that he cherished from those times. Lastly, he loved Athens, his Bulldawgs, and his dogs (Buoy & Nash).
Ronald Sanford 'Sandy" Harris

Ronald Sanford ‘Sandy” Harris

– Mar 27, 2024

Ronald Sanford ‘Sandy” Harris, 80, of Butler, GA passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at home.
Sandy was a member of Lebanon Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for many years.
Sandy served on the Taylor County Board of Education for 28 years (1993-2020). Prior to his time on the Board of Education, Sandy served the Taylor County School District as a teacher, a counselor, and a coach. Following his time as an educator, Sandy spent many years with Quality School Products–a school fundraising division of Reader’s Digest–and then later Great American Products.
Sandy was also active in many business ventures throughout the years including a local Cotton States insurance agency in Butler, GA; various real estate companies in Columbus and Florida; and multiple Money Mizer Pawn & Jewelry stores throughout Alabama, Georgia, and Florida.
During his retirement years, Sandy continued his long-time love for numismatics and often traveled across the Southeast working and attending coin and currency shows with his wife.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Emory and Johnnie Granger Harris.
Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Jeri Harris of Butler; one son, Will Harris (Valerie) of St Augustine, FL; one daughter, Leigh Locke (Joel) of Butler; two brothers, Mark Harris (Bunny) of Reynolds and Dan Harris of Butler; five grandchildren, John Walker (Olivia), Emma Walker, Anna Walker, Maddie Harris and Luke Harris.

Jame Buckner Lusk

James Buckner Lusk

– Apr 5, 2024

James Buckner Lusk, 76, of Hixson, Tennessee, passed away on Friday, April 5, 2024.
He was a graduate of Hillsboro High School, and was a graduate of Tennessee Technological University. James was a veteran of the United States Army.
He was employed for many years with Ryder Truck Lines, and upon retirement happily portrayed Santa at the local Chattanooga shopping malls, as well as various out of town locations.
James was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Phyllis Strong Lusk; his mother and step-father, Geneva Buckner Ingram, and Judge Joe M. Ingram; father, William Peyton Lusk; and brother, William Andrew Lusk.

He is survived by his fiance, Dale Spear; children, Kevin Lusk, of Ringgold, Ga., and Eric (Ashley) Lusk, of Murfreesboro; grandchildren, Chandler Lusk, Lindee Lusk, Drew Lusk, and Sarah Claire Lusk.