Our beloved Karl Worthington died peacefully in his sleep surrounded by family, after a brief illness, on August 21, 2024 at age 70.
Karl was a baker by trade and was an active member of the Dockbuilders Union of New York. He owned Worthington Bakery, a third-generation business in Branchville NJ on the Appalachian Trail. He was also skilled at repairing or developing anything from scratch using salvaged items or repurposing household items.
Karl and his wife Carol met on a business trip in Fort Washington PA. They are forever thankful for Karl’s sister, Doris Wood, for her matchmaking. After a brief long-distance relationship, Karl moved South of the Mason/Dixon line where they made their home after marrying by a creek in Gatlinburg TN.
Karl was a member of First Baptist Lebanon and helped with the Summer Ministry at Cedars of Lebanon with two of his favorite people and mentors, Don and Ann McElroy. The ministry at Cedars of Lebanon was perfect for Karl who loved the woods. He was an avid hunter, skilled fisherman and an excellent archer. Karl loved antique cars, animals, especially black bears, and family. He was the rock of the family and was kind enough to follow through all things Carol volunteered him for or brought home for him to care for.
Karl leaves behind his wife Carol Worthington, daughter Erin (Anthony) Ali, grandson Sal, great-granddaughter Evie , and Scraper his “little buddy”, his sister Doris Wood (Alan), his brother George Worthington Jr. (Maureen), nieces Kim Geddis (Brian), Kristy Reper (Buck), and other nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, cousins, special friends Ken Koperl and Susan Smith, along with grandniece and Goddaughters Lacey Hums, Treasure Jo Geddis, uncles Steve Vastola and Aaron Rittenberry (Debbie). Karl is preceded in death by step-daughter Tiffany Markham, father George Worthington and mother Esther Worthington, and father-in-law James Durham.
Karl’s service will be Saturday, August 24, 2024. Visitation will be at First Baptist Lebanon (227 E. Main Street) from 11-1 p.m. with the Celebration from 1-2 p.m. Pastor David Freeman will be officiating with help from Deanna Freeman, Karl’s favorite songbird, and other FBCL members. Burial will be at Cedar Grove Cemetery immediately following the ceremony. Pallbearers: Josh Rittenberry, Chris Rittenberry, Glen Chambers, Casey Goins, Brian Keith, and Adam Patterson. Honorary Pallbearers: Brian Geddis, Travis Geddis, and Arik Hums.
Please make Memorial Donations to First Baptist Church.
Arrangements by Sellars Funeral Home, Lebanon TN, 615.444.9393.
