News Summary
This week, the community mourns the loss of four cherished individuals: Anne Gilbert Henniss, Gail Thomas Pollock, Lorraine Waller, and Wilson Edward Meadows, Jr. Each left a lasting impact through love, kindness, and resilience. Their legacies will continue to inspire those who knew them, as we honor their memories and contributions to the lives they touched. A memorial service details for Anne will be announced soon. The family encourages donations in her memory to the United Negro College Fund.
Obituaries: Remembering Four Lives Cut Short
In a poignant week of loss, our community has bid farewell to several cherished souls. Each of these individuals left a unique mark on the lives of those around them, and their legacies will continue to inspire and bring joy to their loved ones. Let’s take a moment to remember Anne Gilbert Henniss, Gail Thomas Pollock, Lorraine Waller, and Wilson Edward Meadows, Jr. as we celebrate their lives.
Anne Gilbert Henniss: A Life of Love and Kindness
On April 8, 2025, Anne Gilbert Henniss passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by comfort and love. Sadly, congestive heart failure claimed the life of this warm-hearted woman. She was preceded in death by her dear parents, Alpha and Henry Gilbert, who undoubtedly shaped her caring nature.
Anne leaves behind a close-knit family that will carry on her legacy. Surviving her in this world are her daughter, Kathryn, and partner, Laurie Benson, both from Redwood City, California. Also remembering her fondly are her son, Bruce, daughter-in-law, Karrie, and precious grandson, Jeremy, who live in Columbus, Ohio.
A funeral service to honor Anne’s memory will take place at the Thankful Memorial Episcopal Church in the upcoming weeks, with specific details to be shared soon. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in Anne’s name to the United Negro College Fund to help dozens of students achieve their dreams.
Gail Thomas Pollock: A Heart That Never Quit
Also on April 8, 2025, Gail Thomas Pollock took her last breath in Calera, Alabama, while receiving care from ExpectCare Hospice. Born on April 18, 1950, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, she was the beloved daughter of Betty and W. Neil Thomas. Gail’s warmth and uplifting spirit made an impression on everyone who had the fortune of knowing her.
While her physical presence will be missed, her indomitable spirit lives on in her friends and family. Gail’s life was a testament to the strength of love, and her bright smile will continue to shine in the memories she created.
Lorraine Waller: Battling Until the End
Lorraine Waller left us all too soon on Monday, April 7, 2025, following a courageous and lengthy battle with cancer. She was born on September 24, 1948, in Rahway, New Jersey. Lorraine’s journey was filled with love and resilience, and those who knew her will remember her not just for her struggle but for her unwavering strength in facing life’s challenges.
Her spirit and laughter brought joy to her loved ones, and her ability to cherish every moment will serve as a lasting legacy to everyone who had the privilege of calling her family or friend.
Wilson Edward Meadows, Jr.: Remembering “Bo”
Finally, we remember Wilson Edward Meadows, Jr., affectionately known as Bo, who passed away on April 1, 2025. Born on March 13, 1966, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, he was the son of Wilson Meadows Sr. and Amezia. Bo lit up every room he entered with his charisma, and his joyful energy will be sorely missed by all.
Each of these remarkable individuals has touched many lives in their unique ways. While they may no longer walk among us, their spirits will continue to inspire us to cherish one another in our daily lives. As we say goodbye, let’s hold on to the beautiful memories they’ve left behind.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Anne Gilbert Henniss
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Chattanoogan: Remembering Four Lives Cut Short
- Google Search: Obituaries
- Chattanoogan: Gail Thomas Pollock
- Google Scholar: Legacy
- Chattanoogan: Lorraine Waller
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mourning
- Chattanoogan: Wilson Edward Meadows, Jr.
- Google News: Remembrance

Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.


