Edward Lee Reno, 73, of Riceville, died quietly on Sunday, June 14, 2009, at NHC Health Care of Athens, after battling health problems caused by a stroke six years ago.

A native and lifelong resident of McMinn County, he was a son of the late Rev. Winfred Lee and Beulah Ann Womack Reno, and was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, the Rev. Lawrence and Alma Varnell; and two sisters-in-law, Linda Varnell and Jane Varnell Childs. He was a retired security guard and was a veteran of the U.S. National Guard. He was a member of Rocky Mount Baptist Church, Thomas A. Hamilton Masonic Lodge 317 of Riceville, was a 32nd Degree Scottish Rites Mason and a member of Alhambra Shrine of Chattanooga. He was a kind and tender father, friend, and neighbor, and he displayed the genuine conduct of a true gentleman at all times to everyone who knew him. His life has left a warm and pleasant memory. His passing has created a void in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Joyce Varnell Reno of Riceville; one son and daughter-in-law, Danny and Diane Reno of Riceville; one brother and sister-in-law, Floyd Harold and Martha Reno of Cleveland; and two sisters-in-law and spouses, Shirley and Wally Cunningham and Benny and Ivadell Varnell, all of Decatur.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday in the chapel of Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home with the Rev. Jerry Plaster officiating. Burial will follow in Cedar Grove Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Richard Woody, Danny Malone, Ben Varnell, Wally Cunningham, Derrick Neely and Dylan Neely.

A Masonic service will be conducted by Thomas H. Hamilton Masonic Lodge 317 at 8 p.m. Monday in the funeral home chapel.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Rocky Mount Baptist Church, 1002 Rocky Mount Rd., Athens, TN 37303.

Those not able to attend may send condolences to mailto:condolences@laycock-hobbs.com