News Summary
Karen Bright Cline, a cherished member of the Chattanooga community, passed away peacefully at age 75. Known for her warmth and devotion, she leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness, impacting all who knew her. Cline, a dedicated mother, grandmother, and church member, is remembered for her joyful spirit and strong family connections. A funeral service will be held for her as the community comes together to honor her life and contributions.
Chattanooga, Tennessee – Karen Bright Cline, a beloved figure in the Chattanooga community, passed away peacefully at the age of 75 on June 21, 2025. Known for her warmth and resilience, Cline made a lasting impact on those who knew her.
Cline was born on October 9, 1949, in Chattanooga and spent her formative years in the Battery Heights neighborhood. She attended Central High School, graduating as part of the Class of 1967, and later pursued further education at a business school in downtown Chattanooga. Her professional career began as an executive secretary, where she earned a reputation for her diligence, poise, and professionalism.
In her lifetime, Cline experienced joys and challenges. She lived in Germany for a time, where her first child was born, before returning to Chattanooga to welcome her second child. Her marriage to Jerry Cline in 1982 marked the beginning of more than 42 years of companionship and devotion. Jerry served as her primary caregiver during her health decline, showcasing the deep bond they shared.
Cline was a dedicated member of the Pairs and Spares Sunday School Class at Burks United Methodist Church in Hixson. Throughout her life, she experienced profound loss, having been preceded in death by her parents, Stephen L. Bright and Lillie Whittenburg Bright, and her beloved aunt and uncle, Arthur C. Kamin and Clara Bright Kamin, who raised her after her mother’s premature passing. In 2024, she endured the heart-wrenching loss of her daughter, Kristen Tawater Jones.
She is survived by her husband, Jerry W. Cline, her son Shawn Tawater, and step-sons Doug (Shannon) Cline, Mike (Von) Cline, and Scott (Lynne) Cline. Cline also leaves behind a large family, including grandchildren Trent (Crystal) Scott, Trace (Elizabeth) Cline, Taylor (Amy) Cline, Elizabeth (Elijah) Grimm, Emily (Brandon) White, Ben (Bethany) Cline, Delaney Cline, and Annalee Cline, as well as 12 great-grandchildren, all of whom hold dear memories of her love and generosity.
Cline was remembered for her jovial spirit, infectious laugh, and her role as a nurturing wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoyed a variety of pastimes including reading, traveling, boating, crocheting, and spending time on the beach. Many cherished moments were created during leisurely mornings where she and Jerry would share coffee on their boat. She also had a passion for shopping and enjoyed game nights filled with laughter alongside family and friends.
Karen Bright Cline leaves behind a legacy characterized by kindness, joy, and unwavering love that inspired those around her. Known for hosting countless family gatherings, she fostered strong connections among relatives and friends, creating cherished memories that will endure beyond her passing.
The family will hold visitation on June 26 from 4-7:30 p.m. and June 27 from 10-11 a.m. at Hamilton Funeral Home. A funeral service is scheduled for June 27 at 11 a.m., followed by burial at Greenwood Cemetery. Pallbearers will include her step-sons and grandsons: Mike Cline, Scott Cline, Ben Cline, Trent Scott, Trace Cline, and Taylor Cline. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude’s or Burks United Methodist Church.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Karen Bright Cline
- Wikipedia: Karen Bright Cline
- Vanderwall Funeral Home: Kristen Jones
- Google Search: Kristen Jones
- Dignity Memorial: Thomas Dempsey
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thomas Dempsey
- WATE: List of Those Owed Money by Tennessee
- Google News: Tennessee Money Owed
- Vanderwall Funeral Home: Morris Chadwick
- Google Scholar: Morris Chadwick
