Johns Creek, GA, September 8, 2025
News Summary
The community of Johns Creek, Georgia, mourns the loss of four cherished residents: Cellia Ann McConnell Conley, Dorothy Jean Smith, Evan Kristof Schuetz, and Richard ‘Dick’ David Gastley. Each individual is remembered for their unique contributions and lasting legacies, from nursing and education to military service and family dedication. Their memorial services will be held in the coming months, highlighting the love and respect they earned in their lifetimes.
Johns Creek, GA: Community Remembers Four Beloved Residents
In Johns Creek, Georgia, the community grieves the recent loss of four esteemed residents: Cellia Ann McConnell Conley, Dorothy Jean Smith, Evan Kristof Schuetz, and Richard “Dick” David Gastley. Each of these individuals leaves behind a legacy defined by family, passion, and dedication.
Cellia Ann McConnell Conley
Cellia Ann McConnell Conley, aged 86, passed away on July 3, 2025. Born on February 4, 1939, in Russell, Kentucky, she spent her early years there and later met her husband, Franklin Delano Conley. After pursuing higher education at Centre College and Eastern Kentucky University, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. The couple married in 1959 and raised two daughters in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Conley was an active member of Christ United Methodist Church and later at State Street United Methodist Church. In a significant shift in her career, she returned to school at Western Kentucky University, obtaining a Nursing degree at the age of 37. Conley dedicated her nursing career to the Medical Center at Bowling Green, specializing in various fields, including ICU and dialysis nursing.
Eventually, she moved to assisted living in Georgia to be closer to her family. She passed away at Belmont Village of Johns Creek, remembered fondly for her smiles and warm interactions with caregivers. Conley is survived by her two daughters, Melissa Tippens and Melinda Winningham, as well as her three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. An interment service for her and Franklin is scheduled for September 13, 2025, in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Donations in her memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Duluth First United Methodist Church.
Dorothy Jean Smith
Dorothy Jean Smith, aged 81, passed away on March 23, 2025. Born on February 4, 1944, in Miami Beach, Florida, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Miami and subsequently a Master’s Degree in Psychology from Barry University. Smith dedicated over 40 years of service as a teacher and guidance counselor for Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
She is survived by her two brothers and one sister. A memorial service was held on March 29, 2025, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, followed by her interment at Union Memory Gardens Cemetery.
Evan Kristof Schuetz
Evan Kristof Schuetz, aged 46, passed away on August 25, 2025, after a courageous battle with Sarcoma. Born on July 7, 1979, in Berkeley, California, Schuetz moved to Sandy Springs, Georgia, at the age of 6 and embraced a lifelong love for baseball. He attended the University of Georgia and was an active member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity.
In 2006, Schuetz married Elissa Hilles and settled in Johns Creek, Georgia. He enjoyed participating in his sons’ baseball activities. He is survived by his wife Elissa, their two sons, Erickson and Emmett, as well as his parents and a brother. A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for September 20, 2025, at Dunwoody United Methodist Church. Donations to support his sons’ education through their 529 College Fund have been requested in lieu of flowers.
Richard “Dick” David Gastley
Richard “Dick” David Gastley, aged 91, passed away on February 3, 2025. Born on October 30, 1933, in Clarkesville, Georgia, he served as a U.S. Navy pilot for nearly two decades, achieving the rank of Captain. Gastley later transitioned to a career in the aviation industry with Association Aviation Underwriters until his retirement.
Married to Carol Roth in 1959, he was a dedicated father to three sons. An avid golfer and a person known for his humor, he embraced life with adventure. His Celebration of Life is scheduled for February 16, 2025, at Johns Creek Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged for the Special Olympics of Georgia or Johns Creek Baptist Church.
FAQs
Who were the individuals recently remembered in Johns Creek, GA?
The community remembers Cellia Ann McConnell Conley, Dorothy Jean Smith, Evan Kristof Schuetz, and Richard “Dick” David Gastley.
What was Cellia Ann McConnell Conley’s profession?
She was a nurse who worked in various specialties, including ICU and as a dialysis nurse.
When and where will the memorial services for these individuals take place?
Memorial services are scheduled for: Cellia Conley (September 13, 2025, Bowling Green, KY), Evan Schuetz (September 20, 2025, Dunwoody United Methodist Church), and Richard Gastley (February 16, 2025, Johns Creek Baptist Church).
Key Features of the Obituaries
| Name | Age | Date of Passing | Key Achievements | Survivors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cellia Ann McConnell Conley | 86 | July 3, 2025 | Nursing career, Degree in Math | Daughters, grandchildren |
| Dorothy Jean Smith | 81 | March 23, 2025 | Teacher and Guidance Counselor | Brothers, sister |
| Evan Kristof Schuetz | 46 | August 25, 2025 | University of Georgia Alumni, Active baseball parent | Wife, sons, parents, brother |
| Richard “Dick” David Gastley | 91 | February 3, 2025 | Navy Captain, Career in Aviation | Wife, three sons, grandsons, great-grandchildren |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bowling Green Police Actively Search for Lorenzo Sinclair Johnson
Community Advocate Romanza Johnson Passes Away
South Central Kentucky Faces Flooding Crisis
Additional Resources
- Mountain View Funeral Home: Dorothy Smith
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Dignity Memorial: Evan Schuetz
- Google Search: Johns Creek GA obituaries
- Ingram Funeral Home: Richard Gastley
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituaries
- Legacy: Sergio Ambrosi
- Google News: Community Memorials
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren 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 the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
