Dave, Frank, Little Richard, and Johnny: Lynchburg lost a host of famous faces in 2020

{Editor’s Note: This article originally published on December 31, 2020 with one glaring omission, Dave Fruehauf. As soon as a reader pointed out the mistake, we immediately updated and republished.}

One might say that 2020 was a year of loss. We lost normalcy and precedented times. Everyone reading this article lost someone dear to them. Here in Lynchburg, we lost three notable names that were icons to the world but friends and neighbors to us.

Famous Blackbird Pilot Dave Fruehauf dies at 83 | In October, Lynchburg lost one of its local characters and an aeronautical legend, Dave Fruehauf. Dave and his trusty companion, a rescued Labrador mix named Jack, could be seen most mornings taking their lap around the Lynchburg Square. What many locals did not know, and Dave would never tell you, is that Dave Fruehauf was kind of a big deal. He was one of only a handful of Air Force pilots to ever fly the famed, stealth Blackbird SR-71. Click here to read our editor’s personal essay about him, Saturdays with Dave.

Former Master Distiller Frank Bobo dies at the age of 90 | In January, Jack Daniel’s Distillery’s fifth master distiller, Frank Bobo, died at the age of 90. To locals, he would be remembered as “Frog” Bobo, a true southern gentleman, a veteran, Raider fan, and a man with a deep and abiding love for his beloved, Avalee. Frank Bobo oversaw whiskey-making during a time of rapid growth in the Holler. During his tenure, the distillery went from operating just two stills to five. Through it all, Bobo diligently stuck to the Lincoln County Process. He was committed to making the whiskey the, “same way Jack did” despite the ever-growing pressure to produce more of it. He retired in 1989 but his legacy lives on at Jack Daniel even today. In fact, his grandson, Chris Fletcher, took over the reigns of Jack Daniel Master Distiller in October. To read our complete coverage of his death, click here.

Richard Wayne Penniman aka Little Richard 1932-2020

Little Richard dies at the age of 87 | There’s Lynchburg famous and then there’s famous, famous and music legend Richard Wayne Penniman, lovingly known as Little Richard, was both. He lived as one of the founding fathers of rock and roll, R&B legend, Hall of Fame member, contemporary of Elvis, influencer of Prince and the Beatles, and the guy would who offer you a broad smile while buying his milk at Woodard’s in Lynchburg. One things for sure, Little Richard made an impression in a town that sees its fair share of famous faces … but not as a tourist. He was one of our own … as neighbor and friend. Everyone in Lynchburg has a Little Richard story including our editor. She shared it in a personal essay about Little Richard following his death. You can read that essay by clicking here.

Coaching legend Johnny Majors dies at 85 | To sports reporters and ESPN types around the globe he was known as Johnny Majors, the legendary Iowa State, Pittsburgh, and Tennessee Volunteers coach but folks around Lynchburg knew him as John Terrell Majors, son of Coach Shirley and Elizabeth Majors – a former Moore County Raider and part of the origin story of the fierce Moore County Huntland rivalry. On June 3, family members announced that Majors had died at home. In a statement released by the family, John’s wife of 61 years, Mary Lynn Majors said, “It’s with a sad heart that we make this announcement. John passed away this morning. He spent his last hours doing something he dearly loved: looking out over his cherished Tennessee River.” To read our complete coverage of his death, click here.•

{The Lynchburg Times is the only independently owned and operated newspaper in Lynchburg. We cover Metro Moore County government, Jack Daniel’s Distillery, Nearest Green Distillery, Tims Ford State Park, Motlow State Community College, Moore County High School, Moore County Middle School, Lynchburg Elementary, Raider Sports, plus regional and state news.}

Donald Ray Evans of Lois dies at 74

Donald Ray Evans of the Lois and Mulberry communities died at Vanderbilt Medical Center on Thursday, December 24 at the age of 74. A native of Moore County, Donald Ray was born on February 10, 1946 as the son of the late Claude and Mary Grammer Evans. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps. in the Vietnam War and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal.

According to his family, Donald Ray will be remembered not only as a serviceman, but as a gentleman who had a gentle touch a tender heart. “He also had a heart for animals and was kind to everyone, giving more than he ever took. He loved his God and served him daily, knowing where his ultimate home was. His wife, Dolly, was the love of his life. He loved his children and grandchildren dearly, raising his children with a firm hand, but also with love. He was their “Mr. Fix-it” and was always there to console his children when they needed a pick-me-up. He taught his girls about cars, how to work, and the importance of being independent. He wanted them to always know that there was nothing that they couldn’t do. He had a wonderful sense of humor and when he smiled, it was always genuine. Mr. Evans kept the community entertained by the sound of racing engines, race cars, and motorcycles. He enjoyed being outside on his tractor and in the woods,” according to the family.

His loving wife of nearly 50 years, Dolly Evans, survives him along with his daughters: Angela Fay Weddington (Jason) of Mulberry and Pamela Sue Bryson (Stewart) of Marietta; his sister, Wanda Fay Evans of Lynchburg; aunt, Margie Grammer of Tullahoma; as well as his grandchildren, Allyssa Hope Hannah (Zachary) of Charity, Faith Evans Weddington of Mulberry and fiancé, Tyler Simmons of Lincoln County, William West Bryson of Marietta, Oliver Stewart Bryson of Marietta. He is also survived by good friends, Larry and Nancy Hatfield of Mulberry and Gerald and Patty Hinkle of Lynchburg.

Graveside services for the family will be held at Lois Cemetery on Saturday, January 2 at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Friends of Animals Rescue and Adoption Center at P.O. Box 8015, Lynchburg, TN 37352. •

{Editor’s Note: The Lynchburg Times publishes obituaries of Moore County residents and individuals whose immediate family live in Moore County at no cost to the family. We consider it a public service important for future genealogical research. Submit your information to editor@lynchburg-times.com.}

Richard Allen Williams of Lynchburg dies at 66

Richard Allen Williams of Lynchburg died at his home in Lynchburg on Monday, November 23. A veteran of the United States Army, Richard was preceded in death by his father, Bill Williams, his daughter, Stephanie Collins, and his sister, Linda Williams.

Survivors include his mother, Lucille Warren of Lynchburg, his son, Eric Williams of Lewisburg, his daughter, Pamela Pugh of Cornersville, his brother, David Wayne Williams of Smithville, his sister, Louann Smith of Tullahoma, his grandchildren, Mhara Leaming Alexis Williams, Hannah Pugh, and Houston Pugh, and his great grandchildren, Alissa and Amelia Leaming, and Hyde Williams.

Carr & Erwin Funeral Home in Pulaski will host visitation for the family on Friday, November 27 from 4-8 p.m. The funeral home is located at 1228 East College Street in Pulaski. Graveside services with full military honors will happen on November 28, 2020 at 11 a.m. at New Zion Cemetery.•

{Editor’s Note: The Lynchburg Times publishes obituaries of Moore County residents and individuals whose immediate family live in Moore County at no cost to the family on our website. We consider it a public service important for future genealogical research. Submit your information to editor@lynchburg-times.com.}

Dorothy Tucker dies at 92

Dorothy (Dot) Tucker of Lynchburg died at the age of 92 at her Lynchburg home surrounded by family on Sunday, October 11, 2020 after an extended illness.

She was born on September 27, 1928 to the late Franklin and Ada Bell Groce of Lincoln County. She and her late husband of 61 years, Robert Lenton Tucker, resided in the Chestnut Ridge Community of Moore County, where they had a family farm, raised cattle, and gardened. They also owned/operated Tucker’s Grocery for 26 years. She later worked at The Lynchburg Hardware and General Store and retired from Jack Daniel’s Distillery.

According to her family, she lived as a devoted mother and grandmother, who loved her family with all her heart and enjoyed having the grandchildren stay every weekend. She cooked Sunday dinner for the family every Sunday – preparing each person’s favorite dish. And, she was known to cook countless meals (complete meals, never just a dish or two) for someone sick, widowed, or in need.

She was also a member of Hickory Hill Presbyterian Church, where she taught Sunday school for many years.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Lenton Tucker; her parents, and 12 siblings: Raymond, Reuben, Johnnie, Garland, twins: Monroe and Morell, twins: Hubert and Herbert, and James Edward Groce, Annie Dee Thomas, Odell Wiles, and Sue Riddle; and son-in-law, Butch Burt.

She is survived by son, Robert Daniel Tucker (Donna) of Lynchburg; daughter, Brenda Burt of Tullahoma; four grandchildren: Tara Parks (Scott) of Lynchburg, Wendy Grayson of Lynchburg, Seth Burt of Murfreesboro, Lenton Burt (Melissa) of Fayetteville; one granddaughter by love: Leanne Durm-Minoux (Brian) of Lynchburg; six great grandchildren: Tucker Boswell, Emily Parks, Ansley Grayson, Sawyer Parks, and Lola and Channing Burt; special friend and caregiver: Rosie Charlton, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday night at Lynchburg Funeral Home from 5-7 p.m. with funeral service to follow on Thursday, October 15 at 1 p.m. Gravesides service will follow at Lynchburg Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ladies Aide of the Upper Cumberland Presbyterian Church. •

Air Force pilot David E. Fruehauf dies at 83

Retired United State Air Force pilot David E. Fruehauf (Dave), age 83, died on October 10, 2020 at his home in Lynchburg with his family by his side.

Dave was the eldest son of the late Eugene and Jean Fruehauf of Buffalo, New York. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a distinguished and highly decorated pilot flying the SR-71 Blackbird and recipient of the following awards: The Distinguished Flying Cross (2), The Air Medal (4), Meritorious Service Medal (4), just to name a few.

Later in his Air Force career, he served in numerous command roles. After retiring from 23 years of Air Force service, Dave continued his aviation career as a test pilot at Groom Lake, Nevada aka (Area 51). According to his family, Dave succeeded at everything he set his sights on.

In 1985, Dave moved to Lynchburg, which is where he dug his roots. He continued his work serving his country in the defense industry in Huntsville, commuting 100 miles each day. In 1999, he “officially” retired and then became busier than ever. First with his association in the Huntsville Botanical Society and Huntsville Fern Society where he became a Master Gardener. He then served as a Moore County Jail Museum guide. This is where Dave realized his calling as an “ambassador” for Lynchburg.

He enjoyed talking to anyone who would listen, and the farther away they lived the more time he wanted to spend with them. He never met a stranger. Rarely has there been a day that Dave would not be seen on the Lynchburg Square walking his beloved dogs, fittingly named, Whiskey, his black lab mix and most recently, Jack, his best friend over the last 10 years.

Anyone who was fortunate enough to cross his path, came away with the belief that they had just met someone special. He never stopped learning, if something peaked his interest, he did not stop until he became an authority on the subject. He then wanted to share that knowledge, with again … anyone who would listen.

Dave is survived by his wife of 25 years, Wanda Hopkins Fruehauf, sons, Eric (Wendy) Fruehauf of Lynchburg, David Fruehauf of Las Vegas, Nevada; daughters, Karen Fruehauf of Las Vegas, and Teresa (Steve) Stewart, Cynthia (Jerome) Moore both of Knoxville; grandchildren: Elizabeth (Kohl) Rogers and Scott Fruehauf both of Lynchburg, Peyton Bennett of Knoxville, Callie Moore of Knoxville, Brad (Jessica) Stewart of Knoxville, Lindsey McMillen of Knoxville, Wyatt Fruehauf and Justin Fruehauf, both of Las Vegas; brother, Paul (Diane) Fruehauf of N. Tonawanda, New York; sisters, Mary Ann Wegner of Cheektowaga, New York, and Donna (Gordy) Klein of Rochester, New York, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great grandchildren along with many more friends that can ever be named.

A celebration of Dave’s life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers please make donations in Dave’s name to the Friends of Animal Rescue and Adoption Center of Lynchburg, 1980 Fayetteville Highway, Lynchburg, TN 37352. •

Personal Essay: Saturdays with Dave

By Tabitha Evans Moore | Editor & Publisher

David E. Fruehauf, a local and aeronautical legend, left us on Saturday, October 10 at the age of 83. (*Lynchburg Times* Photo)

Like most friendships, it happened by chance. Dave Fruehauf and I were both morning walkers. I often ran into him and his trusty sidekick, Jack, near the Lynchburg square. In fact, we so often collided that I began to keep treats in my front pocket for both Jack and our town dog, Buddy the Beagle. Several days a week, Jack got his treat and Mr. Dave got his hug as part of my morning ritual.

One day, Mr. Dave suggested we meet up at American Craft Distillers of Lynchburg after our walks for a Bloody Mary. I don’t often drink at 10 a.m. on a Saturday but sitting with Mr. Dave meant I could soak up a bit of this local treasure and so I was always game.

Talking with Dave Fruehauf was fascinating. For those of you who don’t know, Captain David E. Fruehauf was kind of a big deal. He was one of a handful of Air Force pilots to ever fly the famed, stealth Blackbird SR-71. In fact, he safely ejected from the plane during practice maneuvers in California in the second SR-71B Blackbird Lockheed ever manufactured for the Air Force.

The sleek, high altitude multi-million dollar reconnaissance aircraft could exceed Mach 3 … that’s three times the speed of sound. Usually it came loaded with a variety of sophisticated photographic equipment but this one was a training plane built for two pilots.

The plane crashed on approached to Beale Air Force Base on January 11, 1968 and instructor pilot Lieutenant Colonel Robert. G. Sowers and his student, Fruehauf were forced to eject around 3,000 feet and a mere seven miles from the end of the runway near a string of high tension power transmission towers. They landed safely in a nearby field as the plane burst into flames on impact.

Originally built in the 1960’s, the Blackbird existed as an Air Force top secret spy plane. In total, 32 Blackbirds were built through 1999 when both the USAF and NASA retired them. Twelve were lost in accidents and none in enemy action. Today, the SR-71 continues to hold the the world record it set in 1976 for the fastest, air-breathing manned aircraft.

Mr. Dave could often be seen wearing a SR-71 Blackbird baseball cap and Cold War history buffs and aeronautics fanatics would often light up when they spotted it. They’d approach and Mr. Dave would demure until I cut him a look and nudged him. Though I heard it numerous times, I always loved the way he told the story of that day.

It late August, Mr. Dave was missing. I stopped in American Craft Distillers around our usual time … and nothing. I shrugged and then headed to Lynchburg Veterinary Hospital to pick up flea meds for my pups. As I turned to leave, I spotted Mr. Dave, his wife Wanda, and Jack.

“Jack!” I exclaimed all excited and then I looked up to see Mr. Dave’s red, swollen eyes. “Oh no, what’s wrong?”

That’s when Dave and Wanda explained that Jack had cancer and didn’t have much more time. I left devastated for my friend.

Jack did indeed leave Mr. Dave on September 24. By that time, Mr. Dave was in the hospital battling his own health issues. Dave’s wife and Dr. Morton made arrangement so Mr. Dave could say goodbye to Jack one last time from the hospital. On October 10, at the age of 83, Mr. Dave left to be with his friend.

On Sunday, I went down to American Craft Distillers and had one more Nashville Hot Bloody Mary just like Dave always ordered me. I could feel Dave and Jack all around and when tears formed in the corner of my eyes I blamed it on the spice.

I sipped it slowly as we traded Dave stories. I savored it because it’s the last one I’ll ever drink. Without Dave, they just aren’t the same. •

{Editor’s Note: We will publish Dave Fruehauf’s full obit and funeral arrangement once they become available.}

Harry Bennett Forehand Jr. dies at 81

TAMPA, Florida — Harry B. Forehand, Jr. – better known to his friends as Josh – died on Monday, September 21, 2020 with his wife by his side.

A native of Tampa, he attended Wilson and Plant High School before moving on to Sewanee Military School. He earned his Economic Degree from the University of the South, where he served on the prestigious Cap and Gown press, competed on the Linkmen Golf Team and was elected Vice-President of the Kappa Alpha Order. He also served as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy.

During his career, he was the the former Owner and President of Forehand Insurance Agency where he served as President of the Independent Insurance of Tampa and was an active Board Member of the Florida Association of Independent Agents.

He will be remembered for his benevolent works including supporting the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, The Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, St. Joseph’s Hospital, and St John’s Episcopal Church.

He was a Thirty-third Degree Mason, member of the Hillsborough Lodge #25 F&AM, member of the Tampa Scottish Rite, and former member and past Director of ROJ, Court 89. Josh was also a former member of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, serving as Marshal; Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club, Tampa Club, Centre Club, University Club and Belleair Country Club.

He leaves behind his wife Marilyn Yent-Forehand; son, Chris Forehand and daughter, Margaret Anne “Meg” Forehand-Korakis (Alex) as well as Jack Yent, Rhonda Yent, Debbie Toale (Robert), Pam Pursley, and Charles (Kandi) Yent; grandchildren: Andrea Forehand, Ashley and Alexandra Korakis, Justin and Kris Yent, Jason (Susie) and Jeff (Hannah) Toale, Kevin (Jenna), Kellen and Carlie Yent; and six great grandchildren.

His parents Harry Bennett Forehand, Sr. of Cochran, Georgia and Madge Aeleise McCormack Forehand of Lynchburg, as well as grandparents William David McCormack and Mary Etna Motlow and great-grandparents James Wilson Motlow and W. Alice Bryant, and Diane Wallace Barner Forehand.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 2 from 5-8 p.m. at Blount & Curry Funeral Home in Tampa. Masonic ritual and remembrances will be at 6 p.m.

The family would like to thank the wonderful and caring staff at Seasons of Largo and Empath Hospice as well as Sue and Vincent Yancar and Dr. Norm and Nancy Urich for their love and support. In lieu of flowers, a contribution to Alzheimer’s Association, Empath Hospice or Charity of your choice, in Josh’s honor, would be deeply appreciated. •

Lynchburg native Roy Clayton Syler dies at 93

Well known, Moore County farmer Roy Clayton Syler died on Thursday, September 17 at the age of 93. Funeral services will be held locally at Jennings-Moore-Cortner Funeral Home on Sunday. {Photo Provided}

A family man, a veteran, a farmer, and a clever Rook player … this is how the family of Roy Clayton Syler would like him remembered. The Moore County native, age 93, died on September 17, 2020, after a short illness, according to family members.

Born on his family farm in the Hurdlow on June 23, 1927, he graduated from Moore County High School in 1947. While enrolled there, he played football under the famous Coach Shirley Majors. At the age of 17, Clayton enlisted in the United States Navy during WWII. After the war ended 18 months later, he returned to Lynchburg and finished high school.

He worked several years in construction, but always wanted to farm. In 1960, Clayton and his wife, Maggie, purchased the family farm and his childhood home in the Hurdlow community. That working farm exists today as the Syler 7 Farm — a Tennessee Century Farm.

Clayton was also a 50 year member of the Lynchburg Masonic Lodge 509 in and a long time member and deacon at Arbor Primitive Baptist Church. In recent years, he and his wife attended Marble Plains Baptist Church.

Clayton loved farming, family, and friends. Even at age 93, Clayton enjoyed getting up to feed calves, or getting on the tractor to work in the hay. If he could find three willing players, a good game of Rook was in order.

Clayton is survived by his wife of 68 years, Maggie Syler as well as his five children, Kerry Syler (Marie) of Lynchburg, Rodney Syler (Lisa) of Franklin, Rickey Syler (Sally) of Lynchburg, Craig Syler (Amy) of Winchester, and Tanya Vann (Matt) of Lynchburg. He is also survived by sister, Faye Moran of Brentwood. In addition, he was blessed with eleven grandchildren: Leanne Davis, Kurt Syler, Matthew Syler, Janna Abele, Britney Anderson, Benjamin Syler, Anna Bracewell, Eason Syler, Christen Herman, Heather Fanning, and Shaynee Syler; and 16 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Annie Syler, as well as his sister Louise Tabor and his brothers, Jake Syler and Leon Syler.

The family will host visitation on Sunday, September 20 from 12-2 p.m. at Jennings-Moore-Cortner Funeral Home in Lynchburg. Funeral Services will follow at 2 p.m. and internment will be at Lynchburg Cemetery with Kurt Syler, Matthew Syler, Benjamin Syler, Eason Syler, Dillon Davis, Clayton Davis, Sean Herman, and Clint Fanning serving as pallbearers. Jennings-Moore-Cortner Funeral Home is located around 181 Majors Boulevard, Lynchburg, TN 37352. For more information, you may reach them at (931)-759-4552. •

Bobbie McGee dies at 84

Bobbie Jewel Martin McGee of Tullahoma passed away on Friday, May 22. Graveside services were held at Smith Chapel Cemetery on May 26. Reverend Alan Martin officiated.

According to her family, Bobbie should be remembered as someone who loved to sew, work puzzles, plant flowers, and spend time with her grandchildren. Her Baptist faith was also important to her.

Her parents (Elijah and Lena Martin) and a brother (Kenneth Martin) preceded her in death. She is survived by 11 children: Martin (Ann) Calhoun, Connie Calhoun, John Calhoun, Sherry Cossey, Wayne (Tish) McGee, Lynn (Sherry) McGee, Jewel (Doug) Carson, Betty Jo McGee, Leann McGee, Bryan Keith (Candy) McGee and Mary Jane (Ron) Manis as well as 27 grandchildren and 44 great grandchildren — many of whom reside in Moore County.

She is also survived by her four sisters; Dorothy (Richard) Hise, Lynn (Kim) Oakley, Kitty McGee, and Ruth (Bob) Broadrick; one brother, Robert Martin; and a special friend, Trish Calhoun. •

Lynchburg native John Majors dies

Most folks in Lynchburg knew him as John but assistant coaches and players called him Johnny. John Terrill Majors died on June 3 at the age of 85. {Photo Provided}

Checkered board flag will be lowered to half mast across the state today as Tennessee fans learn that legendary UT coach and Lynchburg native John Terrill Majors has died at the age of 85.

Born in Lynchburg o n May 21, 1935 to Shirley and Elizabeth Majors, John and his siblings Larry, Shirley Ann, Bill, and Joe grew up in Lynchburg. Moore County’s Majors Boulevard is named for the famous family.

Though most Lynchburg folks and family called him John, as both a player and coach he was better known as Johnny Majors. Majors played at Moore County High School, Huntland High School, and the University of Tennessee as a player. Famed UT coach Robert Neyland once famously stated that Majors was, “greatest single-wing tailback in Tennessee history.”

He began his coaching career as the head coach of the Iowa State Cyclones, where he stayed for five seasons before moving on to the same position at Pittsburgh. It was with the Panthers that Majors earned the majority of his collegiate coaching success.

Majors coached two different stints at Pittsburgh. From 1973-76, he served as head coach at Pitt. During that time he not only helped running back Tony Dorsett win the Heisman, but also put together a perfect 12-0 season and a national championship run. The Panthers beat Georgia 27-3 in the Sugar Bowl to take home the trophy.

Afterwards, Majors headed back to the Volunteer State to take over at his alma mater, the University of Tennessee in 1977. He remained there until 1992. Following his UT coaching career, he returned to Pitt as head coach from 1993-96 and stayed on as a Special Assistant to the Athletic Director and Chancelor until the summer of 2007.

In a statement released by the family, John’s wife of 61 years, Mary Lynn Majors said, “It’s with a sad heart that we make this announcement. John passed away this morning. He spent his last hours doing something he dearly loved: looking out over his cherished Tennessee River.”

John Majors was preceded in death by his parents, Shirley and Elizabeth Majors; and two brothers, Bill Majors and Joe Majors. In addition to his wife, Mary Lynn (Barnwell) Majors, Coach Majors is survived by his two children, John and Mary; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is additionally survived by his sister, Shirley Ann Husband; brothers Larry and Bobby; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service at St. John’s Cathedral will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for contributions to the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra or a charity. •