Clarence Upton Dunn

Clarence “Houston” Upton, age 68, passed away at Starr Regional Medical Center on Sunday, March 13, 2016. He was a native and lifelong resident of McMinn County, a graduate of J.L. Cook High School and was a member of their basketball team. He was an avid Tennessee football and Cincinnati Bengals fan. He enjoyed music, especially Smokey Robinson and spending time with family and friends.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Bruce Upton and Alberta Abernathy Upton; three brothers, George Cansler, Richard Lane, James “Beaver” Dunn, and an infant sister, Loretta; one step-son Jeffrey Ridley; and one nephew Phillip Michael Cardin Lowary.

He is survived by his fiancé of 29 years, Sherri Cardin of Niota; one son Michael Upton of Athens; one step-son Jeffrey Ridley; and one nephew Phillip Michael Cardin Lowery. Also surviving is one brother Elbert Lane of Athens; his mother-in-law Mary Evelyn Cardin of Englewood; two sisters-in-law, Nell Cardin, of Englewood, and Carolyn Dunn; and his two cats, Samantha and Sissy. There are several nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and extended family also surviving.

The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to the Staff of McMinn Nursing Home, the therapy department, the volunteers, Dr. James Durkin, Dr. Samuel Olsen and Dr. Charles Cox for their compassionate care.

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 18, 2016 from the Chapel of Serenity Funeral Home with Rev. Douglas Alexander officiating. Interment will follow the service in the Cedar Grove Cemetery.

The body will lie in repose for family and friends from 1 – 2 p.m. prior to the service on Friday.

Visit the Upton family guestbook and leave a message of comfort.