Charles Reedus Koonce, age 81, of Elora, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his residence on Feb. 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

Graveside services were held on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025, at Elora Cemetery with Stoney Luna and Nicholas Helums officiating.

Reedus Koonce was born on Oct.16, 1943, in Lincoln County, Tennessee, to the late Charlie Bell and Ruby Price Koonce. A dedicated and hardworking man, he began his career at a young age at Parks Sawmill in Fayetteville and later spent many years working at Davie Ashley Sawmill in Elora. In addition to his work in the sawmill industry, he also split and sold firewood, forming lasting friendships with many of his customers.

Even after retiring from Davie Ashley Sawmill, Reedus remained connected to the work he loved. He frequently visited the sawmill, loading his truck with logs to split and sell. Before heading home, he always took time to stop by the shop to visit with friends, enjoying a cold drink and crackers.

Above all, Reedus cherished his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the greatest joys of his life.

Survivors include his son, Milton (Eugenia) Koonce; daughters, Candie Helums, and Kimberly Howard; grandchildren, Nicholas (Andrea) Helums, Brandon (Niki) Helums, Shawna Koonce (Clinton Miller), and Zachary (Aireale) Koonce; great-grandchildren, Neylan, Kadence, Rebekah, Aiden, Adaline, and Marleigh; brother, Jimmy Dean Koonce; and sisters, Betty Guthrie and Mary Johnson.

In addition to his parents, Reedus was preceded in death by his wife, Sarah Katherine McElyea Koonce; son-in-law, Timothy Howard; brothers, James Wesley Koonce, Wally Don Koonce, Roger Dale Koonce, and Jackie B. Koonce; and his sisters, Pauline Russell, Brenda Hickson and Shirley Loggins.

In his famous words, “I’m broke,” but his family finds peace knowing he is now reunited with his wife and loved ones in God’s presence.

Higgins Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Charles Reedus Koonce.