Geneva Kathryn Ward Elkins

Geneva Ward Elkins, age 89 of Paris, TN, died Friday, September 22, 2023, at AHC of Paris.

She retired after many years of work in the garment industry.  She also ran several restaurants in the Gibson County, TN area.  Geneva enjoyed traveling, planting flowers, going dancing, music, and shopping.  In her later years, she worked as a sitter with the elderly until she was in her late 70’s.  She was a member of Springhill Baptist Church in Paris.

Geneva was born October 2, 1933, in Gibson County, TN, to the late Walker E. Buchanan and the late Ruby Davis Buchanan. 

She was first married to Jimmy Ward, who preceded her in death.  She later married William Clayton “W.C.” Elkins, who preceded her in death on July 3, 2023.

She is survived by three stepchildren, William Dale (Pat) Elkins of Chicago, IL, Larry Dennis Elkins of Paris, and Cindy Denise Crosno of Paris; seven grandchildren, LaShawna (Brian) Phillips, Phillip Dale (Heather) Fair, Carissa Fair, James Crosno, Jonathon Crosno, Sheila (Jeremy) Burkhart, and Christie Wimberley; 19 great grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, first husband, and second husband, she was also preceded in death by one son, Larry London; and two sisters, Bobbie Jean Dillard, and Alma Frances Summers.  

Local arrangements are being handled by Ridgeway Funeral Home, 201 Dunlap Street/PO Box 788, Paris, TN 38242.  Visitation will be Monday, September 25, 2023, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Ridgeway Funeral Home. 

Visitation will continue Tuesday, September 26, 2023, from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm at Karnes & Son Funeral Home, 134 College Street, Dyer, TN 38330.  The funeral service will be Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at 3:00 pm at Karnes & Son Funeral Home with Chad Kennedy officiating. 

Family will serve as pallbearers. 

Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Dyer, TN. 

Memorials may be made to the Springhill Baptist Church Building Fund, c/o Johnny Foust, 2740 Highway 77, Paris, TN 38242.