Chattanooga, Tennessee, October 15, 2025
News Summary
Margaret “Melva” Lee Young, a cherished lifelong resident of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of love and service. Born in Cleveland, she dedicated her life to family, her church, and her community. Melva was an active member of Brainerd Baptist Church and had a long career as a receptionist at St. Barnabas Nursing Home. Friends and family will honor her during a graveside service, celebrating her life filled with kindness and compassion.
Chattanooga
Margaret “Melva” Lee Young, a lifelong resident of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away at the age of 94 on Sunday, October 12, 2025. She was surrounded by loved ones at the time of her death and is remembered fondly by her family and community.
Born in Cleveland, Tennessee, she was the daughter of the late William and Chassie Phillips. Melva was preceded in death by her husband, Hubert Young, as well as her brothers, J.D., Bill, and Dink Phillips. She leaves behind her son, Ken Young (Mary), and daughter, Karen Young Siefker (Les), who cherish her memory.
Melva was an active member of Brainerd Baptist Church, where she participated in church activities and made meaningful connections within the congregation. Her professional life included working in the cosmetics department at Kingwood Drug Store. In a dedicated career spanning three decades, she served as a receptionist at St. Barnabas Nursing Home, providing warmth and support to residents and families alike.
A passionate gardener, Melva found joy and solace in tending to her plants and flowers, spending countless hours nurturing her green thumb. Family and friends will likely recall the beauty she brought not just to her garden, but also to their lives through her kindness and caring nature.
A graveside service to honor her life is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Wednesday, October 15, at Forest Hills Cemetery, located at 4016 Tennessee Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37410. Dr. Bill Summers will officiate the service as family and friends gather to celebrate Melva’s remarkable life.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Brainerd Baptist Church at www.brainerdbaptist.org and/or Grace Baptist Church at www.ourgrace.church. Those wishing to share thoughts and memories can do so at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, located at 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Background on Margaret Young’s Life
Throughout her 94 years, Margaret “Melva” Lee Young lived a life dedicated to family, faith, and service. As a member of the community, she left a lasting impact on those who knew her, from her years in the workforce to her beloved gardening pursuits. Her commitment to her church and care for residents at the nursing home reflect a life lived with purpose and compassion.
Key Contributions
- Worked at Kingwood Drug Store in the cosmetics department.
- Served for 30 years as a receptionist at St. Barnabas Nursing Home.
- Active member of Brainerd Baptist Church.
- Passionate gardener, known for her love of cultivating plants.
FAQs
When did Margaret “Melva” Lee Young pass away?
Margaret “Melva” Lee Young passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
What funeral arrangements have been made for Margaret Young?
A graveside service is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Wednesday, October 15, at Forest Hills Cemetery, located at 4016 Tennessee Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37410. Dr. Bill Summers will officiate.
Where did Margaret Young work during her career?
She worked in the cosmetics department at Kingwood Drug Store and later served as a receptionist for 30 years at St. Barnabas Nursing Home.
How did Margaret Young contribute to her church?
Margaret Young was an active member of Brainerd Baptist Church, where she participated in various church activities.
What can be done in memory of Margaret Young?
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Brainerd Baptist Church and/or Grace Baptist Church.
Key Features of Margaret Young’s Life
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Age at Passing | 94 years old |
| Date of Passing | October 12, 2025 |
| Place of Birth | Cleveland, Tennessee |
| Career Highlights | Receptionist at St. Barnabas Nursing Home, worked in cosmetics at Kingwood Drug Store |
| Church Affiliation | Brainerd Baptist Church |
| Family | Survived by son Ken Young and daughter Karen Young Siefker |
| Graveside Service Date | October 15, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Melva Young’s Obituary
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Chattanoogan: Margaret “Melva” Lee Young
- Google Search: Chattanooga news
- Dignity Memorial: Melva Young
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee
- Tukios: Memorial Video for Melva Young
- Google News: Obituaries

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.


