At the age of 82, surrounded by prayers and warm thoughts from relatives and friends far and near, Cleston Eugene Curtis passed from this world Feb. 1 as a result of a massive stroke. He was born Aug. 1, 1936, and was a native of Warren County, residing in Rock Island at the time of his death.

A retired propane gas service technician and well-known nurseryman, he was the son of the late Martin and Myrtle Curtis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sister Icalee Dowell and brothers Rodean Curtis, Beachel Curtis, and Tony Curtis.

Cleston is survived by a daughter and son, Cheryl Hitchcock and Darryl Curtis of Rock Island. In addition to his children, he is survived by five grandchildren and spouses, Jessica (William) Mooneyham, Jamie (Cleo) Sanders, Nathaniel (Kayla) Hitchcock, Maya Coe, and Joseph Hitchcock; seven great-grandchildren, Brookelyn, Carli, and Milly Hitchcock, Isaiah and Asher Sanders, Catherine Mooneyham, and Alex Coe; one sister, Clema Owen; one brother and sister-in-law, Avery and Teresa Curtis; 20 nieces and nephews, their spouses, children and grandchildren; and many beloved cousins and friends. 

He had a love for family get-togethers, helping others, and attending music festivities. He favorite pasttime was driving around, socializing and visiting with friends and acquaintances. A celebration of life service will be held in his honor at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 10, at John Henry’s Music Barn, 358 Norene Road, Sparta. Visitation with the family will be from 11 a.m. until the time of the celebration service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Relay for Life in Warren County, American Stroke Association, Arbor Day Foundation, or Nature Conservancy Tennessee.

Southern Standard

(McMinnville, Tenn.) Feb. 6, 2019