Mrs. Adena Ketchersid Varner, at age 96 years, went home to be with her Lord on June 24, 2009.

Adena Varner was born Feb. 2, 1913. A native of Soddy-Daisy, she had lived in Red Bank since the early 1940s. She attended Daisy High School and the University of Chattanooga, where she majored in elementary education and music.

Mrs. Varner taught in the Hamilton County school system for 38 years, working many years at Red Bank and Alpine Crest Elementary Schools. Mrs. Varner also served as home bound teacher to ill or disabled children unable to attend regular classes. Mrs. Varner was a beloved teacher who loved the children in her care, many of whom kept in contact with her well into their adult years.

Mrs. Varner was the widow of Warren C. Varner. Mr. and Mrs. Varner met in elementary school, became childhood sweethearts and were married for over 60 years. The Varners were long time members of Red Bank Baptist Church, where they served in various ministries. Mrs. Varner was an accomplished pianist and she continued playing her hymns and music until the very end of her life.

Mrs. Varner was preceded in death by her parents, E.B. Ketchersid and Flora Summers Ketchersid; as well as by her brother, Bennett Ketchersid; and a niece, Barbara Ketchersid Albert.

Survivors include her sister, Betty Edwards (Leo); nieces, Diane Tillison (Howard) and Donna Needham (Mitchell); great-nieces and nephews, Lauren and David Barker and Grant and Alex Needham; great-niece, Karen Chandler; great-nephew, Mitchell Albert; as well as Linda Farr (John) who was much like a daughter to Mr. and Mrs. Varner. In her later years as her health declined, Mrs. Varner was able to remain in her home due to the faithful friendship and care of Frances Ledford, Lisa McCurry and Katherine "Kay" Roark. Mrs. Varner had many loving friends, including Jane Plumlee and extended family members who will miss her. The family would like to express their appreciation to Dr. Wayne Scott and Hospice of Chattanooga for their assistance and compassionate care of Mrs. Varner.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Monday at Lane Funeral Home, Coulter Chapel with Rev. Bert Jones and Charles DuPree officiating.
Interment will be in Chattanooga Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made to Red Bank Baptist Church or Hospice of Chattanooga.

Visit www.lane-coulterchapel.com to send condolences.

Visitation is 4-6 p.m. Sunday at Lane Funeral Home, Coulter Chapel, 601 Ashland Terrace.