Joseph Earl Batson, age 91, of Pleasant View Tennessee formerly Ashland City, TN passed away peacefully at home Saturday, September 26, 2026.

Earl was born in Charlotte, TN to the late George Cooksey Batson and Lora Fowler Batson September 21, 1935.

Throughout his life, Earl was known for his honesty, integrity, strong work ethic, love of gardening, deep love of the Lord, dedication to his family and a quick, dry wit that awarded him Wittiest in his graduating class. He was a member of Ashland City United Methodist Church for 70 years where he served on the Board of Trustees as well as other committees, sang in the Chancel Choir and later enjoyed worshiping with his family at Walton’s Chapel for the last two years of his life.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters Lillie Cooksey, Dr. Beatrice Batson, Ida Batson who died when a little girl, Sara Rice, brothers Cooksey Batson, Jesse Dewey Batson, son Joe Claytor and his wife of 58 years, Nancy Williams Batson.

Earl is survived by his brother Robert Batson of Ashland City, daughter Beth (Steve) Batson of Pleasant View, son Sterling (Leah) Claytor of Springfield, daughter Kim (John) Engelman of Nolensville, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A proud American patriot, Earl was honored to have served in the United States Army where he was stationed in Schweinfurt, Germany with specialty in heavy mortars. He was discharged in 1960 with rank of Sergeant and stayed in Active Reserve two additional years.

Following his military service, Earl spent most of his career at the Methodist Publishing House where he was a supervisor in the deluxe printing division.

Music and faith were an important part of Earl’s life. Blessed with a beautiful bass voice and his love for Southern Gospel music, his ministry became singing in gospel quartets by the time he was in high school and throughout his life as long as he was able. He enjoyed growing his beautiful vegetable garden and sharing vegetables with neighbors and friends. He was a faithful and serving husband to his wife Nancy through her lengthy illness. He treasured time with his family and took pride in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be Wednesday, September 30th at 12 Noon in the Chapel of Cheatham County Funeral Home.  The family will receive friends Tuesday, September 29th from 4 - 8 PM and Wednesday, September 30th from 10 AM until time of service at Noon, Interment to follow at Mt. Liberty Cemetery in Charlotte, Tennessee. 

Cheatham County Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements 117 Elizabeth Street, Ashland City, Tennessee 37015 615-792-2552 online condolences at Cheathamcountyfh.com