Gilbert Ward Motes Sr., 87 of Spring City died Monday, January 24, 2022 at his home.

Born on November 30, 1934 in Pikeville, Tennessee , Gilbert was a l ongtime resident of Spring City.  He was a veteran of the U. S. Army.  Gilbert loved music and taught himself how to play guitar at the age of 14 on his mother's guitar.  Gilbert could play any stringed instrument you put in front of him.  He loved to sing and had been part of many groups, including the Bradbury Express (bluegrass) and helped form the original Born Again Believers (gospel).  Gilbert was a member of the St. Clai r Baptist Church in Spring City and spent most of his working career as a crane operator and was the cable installer for Spring City Cable Company for many years .

He was preceded in death by his wife Edna J. Lemons Motes, his daughter Adena Lynn Motes and his daughter-in-law Connie Jane Woody Motes.

Survivors include his children Loretta (Ron) Masterson of Spring City, Nina (Jerry) Daniel of Pikeville, TN, Annette (Joe) Kimery of Ringgold, GA, Ward Motes of Tulsa, OK and Stephania Motes of Spring City, his brother Gene Motes of Soddy Daisy, his 10 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

A graveside service with mi litary honors will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at 3:00 pm in the Spring City Cemetery with Rev. Billy Joe Vitatoe and Rev. Allen Tyler officiating.  There will be no visitation.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the St. Clair Baptist Church Building Fund, 7 60 Rocky Springs Road, Spring City, TN  37381.

Vaughn Funeral Home, Spring City is in charge of arrangements.  Please visit our website at www.vaughn-funeral-home.com to share memories and condolences with the family of Gilbert W ard Motes Sr.