Robert William Vinson, Former County Executive, Dies

Robert William Vinson went home to be with his Lord and Savior August 11, 2011. A native and lifelong resident of Cannon County, Robert was the son of the late Wiley and Helen (Preston) Vinson.

Robert is survived by his children, Brenda (Jerry) Messick of Murfreesboro, Patricia (Jim) Smith of Clarksville, Glenda (Bob) Richards of Smyrna, Gary (Kathy) Vinson of Woodbury, Dwight (Jan) Vinson of Milton, Billy (Diane) Vinson of Murfreesboro and Mary (Tony) Mason of Woodbury; 13 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

Robert was preceded in death by his wife of 71 years Marjorie (Earls) Vinson; son, James Robert Vinson; sister, Louise Pelham and brother, John Hawkins Vinson.

Robert was a member of the Church of Christ. He retired as Foreman with Tennessee State Highway Dept. He served on the Cannon County Court from 1966-1972, as Chairman from 1971-1972, and as County Executive from 1978-1982.

While County Executive he was a driving force in getting The Stones River Hospital, Auburntown School and many other projects for Cannon County. He was proud to have served the people of Cannon County and loved getting involved in politics. Raising beef cattle and working on his farm were his passions. Known for his expert shooting ability, quail hunting and shooting coyotes and wild dogs.

Active Pallbearers: Mark Mason, Jim Vinson, Rob Vinson, Jason Messick, Adam Todd, Tim Underwood, John Pelham and Steve Pelham. Honorary Pallbearers: Pearson Barrett, Billy Higgins, Rob Higgins, Ed Davenport, Tom Mullinax, Joe Cook, Don Stuluka, Dr. Gary Bryant, Lee Vinson, Ray Nichols and Charles Mount.

Visitation will be held at Smith Funeral Home on Saturday, Aug. 13, 2011 from 4-9 PM. Funeral services will be Sunday, Aug. 14, 2011 at 2 PM in the Smith Funeral Home chapel with Bro. Herb Alsup officiating. Interment will follow in Riverside Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Adams Memorial Library or Caris Hospice. Smith Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. (615)563-5337. www.smithfuneralhomewoodbury.net

The family wishes to thank the staff of Woodbury Nursing Center, staff at Stones River Hospital, Caris Hospice, Dr. Gary Bryant, Dr. Michael Thomas, Dr. Jeff Todd and the support of all our friends, neighbors and relatives for their sincere kindness.