Wedding Party
Linda Nelson
Honor Attendant
What an AMAZING LADY!!!!! I was so blessed to meet!!!! We met through work in 2013. She was my customer but instantly more!!!!! She and I shared our life with each other. We both were having challenges at different times and we both filled each other's gas tank at the right time. She blew me away when she wrote a letter to my late husband encouraging him to get better for me and my boys. It was anonymous and I couldn't think of who could have written it. Robert cried as he read it. She stepped out on a limb to do whatever she could to help the situation!!! She is truly an ANGEL on this earth!!!! I had the pleasure of she and her wonderful husband Truitt live with me May 2020-2021. What a Blessing!!!!! We miss them everyday!!!! When we both needed each other the most we became roommates!!!!
Denim (D-NAM) Wallace
Matron of Honor
We pledged KD Sorority in 1995 at 18. She has been one of the best friends you could ever have!! We have been close for over 25 yrs regardless of where we lived. She always makes an effort to spend time together. It is difficult to adequately describe D-Nam. She is so much more than words. One of her sisters once said "When Denim tells you she doesn't care, she really doesn't care" Meaning the simple things of where to eat & what to do. That has always stuck with me. D-Nam is one of the easiest people you will ever meet!!! She is incredible!!!! She is one that calls just when you need her & is always there!!!! She dropped everything when Robert died & spent a week with me. She has an autistic son & this could not have been easy for her!! She is SUCH AN AMAZING LADY AND A HERO OF MINE!!!!!
Kendra Gibbs
Bridesmaid
Kendra came into our family over 10 years ago & BOY DID WE HIT THE JACKPOT!! My cousin Blair (Groomsmen) & I have always been very close!! I knew Kendra was special because he couldn't wait for me to meet her & get my opinion! OMGOODNESS!! I WAS BEYOND THRILLED!!! I couldn't believe Blair had gotten so lucky to have this ANGEL!!!! She & I right away coined the phrase "we are "KENDRID" spirits!!" We instantaneously loved one another & could really share our hearts on a deeper level. I could not wait for she & Blair to meet Richard. They were immediately supportive & since we've shared many special times together!!!!! Kendra is GORGEOUS & UNBELIEVABLY TALENTED!!!! When she sings, her voice is like no other I have ever heard!. SHE IS AS BEAUTIFUL ON THE INSIDE AS SHE IS ON THE OUTSIDE!!!!
Marsha Younce
Bridesmaid
Marsha & I met in 2005 when we became partners at Tanner Behavioral Health. She was experienced & so knowledgeable in the work force. I was in my late 20s & learning the work world. She was such an unbelievable mentor. We had "quarterly strategic plans, annual strategic plans, weekly & daily strategic plans." She said "you type I will talk." I had no clue of what to say but she did!!! She & I quickly became more than coworkers but close friends!! After knowing each other a short time we went to Germany together. Our relationship has been so instrumental through the years. Marsha hasn't had the easiest life but continues to persevere through heart ache. I LOVE THIS WOMAN SO MUCH!!! She is so smart & talented! When she puts her mind, focus, & determination into anything she is unstoppable!!!
Aunt Debbie Dean
Bridesmaid
OMGOODNESS what an honor to have my Aunt Debbie as a Bridesmaid!!!! She honestly thought I was joking when I asked her. She kept laughing until I convinced her I was serious!!!! She is such a fun, bubbly, happy person!!!! She and I have always been close!!!! She is the Mother of 3 of the Most Special Men to Me!!! Blair, Blake and Bennett. She had a scavenger hunt planned by Kayla (Bennett's Wife-who is also Amazing!!!) & orchestrated by Blake on her 70th Birthday. The video sums up who she is in a nut shell. She ran around the house laughing and thinking on the clues. PRICELESS!!! We have always had a special connection. She LOVES Richard!!! We talk often!!! We have grieved together, laughed together and celebrated together!!!!! My day wouldn't be complete without she being apart of it!!!
Julia House
Bridesmaid
Oh My Aunt Judy!!!! What a SPECIAL LADY!!!! And when I say "Lady" I mean "Lady!!!!" I never knew how much I had to Thank her for until I was an adult. She helped & guided my Mother with how to handle situations with me as an adolescent. THANK YOU!!!!! She was the same as Aunt Debbie she didn't think I was serious about being a Bridesmaid. But do you know what she said? " I will do anything for you, Allison" I've got tears in my eyes just typing this.... She said "Well Debbie thought she would be the oldest Bridesmaid but I guess I will be!!" She will be 82 when she walks down the aisle. She is SOOOO FUNNY!!! She is such a special lady that is so inspiring!!!! She has always worked so hard at anything and everything she has done!!! And she is a "MASTER GARDENER!!!' WOW SHE IS AMAZING!!!!
Audrey Cawman
Bridesmaid
AUDREY, OUR beginning we met when I lived in Lexington, KY. She & I trained together at a 5 star Restaurant in 2000. She & I quickly connected. She recently told me when we first met I said "I had to go tee tee," and she thought there is NO WAY I can be friends with this girl. Audrey is a POTTYMOUTH. But soul sisters we are! She came to my wedding, sent food, cards, MORE to the hospital & visited after Hutch was born. She & her Amazing Husband Martin came to the Lakehouse when Hudson was 3. We now have an annual Lake Trip. She LOVES RICHARD! She has been so supportive of our relationship! Audrey is one of the MOST EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE YOU WILL EVER HAVE THE HONOR TO MEET! And I am SOOO BLESSED TO HAVE HER AS A BESTEE! THANK YOU FOR THE HONOR & YOU ARE TRULY REMARKABLE!!
Paige Scott
Bridesmaid
PAIGER RAIGER! We met when we pledged KD 1995 18yrs old. We were always friends & close but when we were seniors for our last semester we lived together. We lived in an apartment in a warehouse & it is indescribable. Paige was Student Teaching in a town 30 minutes away. I worked, had 1 class to graduate & social dance. Needless to say, I was having more fun than Paige. After college I moved to Park City UT & Paige joined me a month later.. Since, we have always been EXTREMELY CLOSE!!! We as life have had ups & downs, & twists & turns. Like D' Nam she dropped everything when Robert passed with 2 small children & spent a week with me making my life better. She said it was one of the best times of her life!!!
Linda Verscharen
Bridesmaid
Linda & I met in 2003. WOW HOW TO EVEN DESCRIBE!!! I was under pressure at work to relinquish my obligations. I was slated to be President & Linda asked if she could do it. YES YOU CAN! Our friendship started there & has been such AN AMAZING RELATIONSHIP SINCE THEN!!!! We have shared so much over the years and she is FAMILY!!!!! She has included me in everything that goes on. We have laughed because a lot of the events on her side and my side have fallen on the same weekends. But I think we are back on track. Our ups and downs in life have only made us stronger. She is an unbelievable person that has changed so many people's lives for the better!!!! SHE IS A CRUSADER!!!! If I wasn't used to being the breadwinner I would work with her for sure!!!!! LINDA THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO!!!!!
Blair Gibbs
Groomsman
I have LOVED my COUSIN Blair since I have known him! We have always been so close and got in the most trouble at our grandparent's house. We were known as the troublemakers but we were "just jumping on the bed." On a serious note, Blair had a tragic accident & I got the news coming home from a fall break trip with Robert, Mother & the boys from Panama City. I couldn't wait to get to Blair. He had broken his neck cutting a limb off a tree in his yard. God is SO GOOD AND I AM SO PROUD OF BLAIR HE WORE A HELMET!!!! The helmet definitely saved his life. I didn't tell anyone I was coming I just had to get to Blair. I got there when he was leaving ITU (INTENSIVE TRAUMA UNIT). I MAJORLY SURPRISED him by being there & was able to go home with he & Kendra. I wanted to be useful so I convinced Kendra to at least let me get his meds from the pharmacy. Life is so precious & I thank the Lord Blair is still here!!! After this tragic accident I have wanted to be there for Blair's Birthday to celebrate him. I shared Richard with he & Kendra & they were instant fans. We have celebrated 2 Birthdays with Blair since. And many other fun times together!!! PRICELESS!!!
Dr. Jason McLendon
Groomsman
My Brother Jason! We were always close growing up! Mother & Dad had their challenges with us. We were both stubborn, headstrong & obstinate at times. We would stay up all night in the summer & watch movies. Our closeness never waivered through adulthood. I visited him in college & every house he & Amanda lived in. Such a special relationship to me. I even helped him get a pony for Jackson Christmas Morning in the middle of the night. Jason is a wonderful story teller! Our get togethers often include asking him to tell another funny one. He has an unbelievably successful practice, marriage & the best children I know. Not only Jason but his entire family have been so supportive of Richard & my relationship. Which means THE WORLD TO US!!! I AM SO PROUD TO BE HIS SISTER!!! I LOVE YOU BROTHER!
Andy McLendon
Best Man
If it weren't for Andy I would've never met Richard. Richard has been one of Andy's best customer & friend for over 20 years. Over the years, we have all shared many amazing times together. Andy is the Best Man because this union wouldn't be possible without him. Richard thinks the world of Andy. They met on a business trip sitting by each other on a bus headed to Mississippi. They instantly connected and have supported each other through the years of life's ups and downs. ANDY ANDY BOO is very special! He refers to me as "Sis" There isn't a person that has met him that doesn't love him. He is & always will be a celebrity in Carrollton. He & Jason were best friends growing up and shared many of the same friends. I was blessed to be their LITTLE SISTER! Andy cares deeply for all & his family is a priority. Andy is the first to say what is on his heart but has the kindest delivery. Jason & I helped with...."HOW NOT TO POKE A BEAR!" Andy waited to find Mrs. Right & BOY was KELLY worth the wait! Andy & Kelly have 2 Beautiful Children Lauren 5 & son Drew born Oct. 25th. 2021.
Kayla Gibbs
Bridesmaid
Kayla SUCH a Special Lady! I knew Bennett was smitten from the get go! He adores Her! They came for our Christmas get together years ago. She & Bennett had not announced they were expecting. She told Bennett after we tucked her in "SHE KNOWS!" Bennett came downstairs & confirmed! A beautiful family they have created! She is EXTREMELY FAMILY ORIENTED! Always takes special time w/ my boys & allowed me to keep their son (at the time) 3 months old. Boy was I HONORED! We have shared many special times together & I am SO THRILLED MY CUZ BENNETT IS SO HAPPY & I LOVE HER TOO! She is a wonderful Mother that pours her heart & soul into her beautiful son & daughter. She sends pictures, calls, checks in, sends the boys Birthday Cards! EXTREMELY THOUGHTFUL! Instant fan & supportive of Richard as well!!
Bennett Gibbs
Groomsman
Bennett & I met when he was born. He was the first newborn I had ever seen. He is a little less than 10 years younger than me & shares the same Birthday as my Brother Jason. It was so delightful watching him grow. Then flash forward when he was "almost grown" he was one of us! Bennett always made our family get togethers a priority. He would come even if his family couldn't. I've watched him grow into such a fine young man!!! He is a phenomenal Father & Husband!!!! Blair, Blake, Bennett & I have always had a special connection!!!! I have the cutest picture of Hutch and Bennett sitting in pajamas in the hallway talking .about life when Hutch was young. Years ago Kayla & Bennett took my boys to SKY ZONE! Bennett broke parts of his foot & ankle. THEY ARE DEDICATED!!!!!
Blake Gibbs
Groomsman
Oh how I LOVE BLAKE! He cares deeply & is the person you always want on your side. Growing up he was Jason's righthand man. Good call because Blair & I were too busy getting into trouble. The older Blake & I got the closer we became! He & I spent special times together when I was in college. He has shared memories of running into peeps that knew me. He helped my parents tirelessly in the yard for Robert & my wedding. He is such a dedicated, ambitious, smart, family oriented young man! Blake has shown up just to pour in my boy's lives. He is protective & didn't expect to like Richard. But he & Richard almost talk more than he & I do. Blake has always been a special part of all our lives. He is bilingual, an inventor and entrepreneur. Soars as a jacket model. I am SO BLESSED HE IS MY CUZ!!!!
Zeke Gresham
Groomsman
Zeke OH MY ZEKE! I know you are your Father's but YOU ARE MINE AS WELL! I can't tell you enough but will continue to try to explain how proud we are of YOU! I need to switch from first person to third. Zeke is Richard's Birth Son & My Bonus Son!!! I have been SOOO BLESSED to be apart of his life since I met Richard. Zeke is unbelievably special. He & I have always had open dialogue. Richard LOVES & ADORES HIS SON!!!! A lot of Richard's life was shaped by Zeke. Zeke had Leukemia at age 4-7. Zeke overcame Leukemia & is brilliant. He graduated college with a Chemistry Degree. He makes us proud everyday!!!! He is now married to an unbelievably Special Lady Alaina & we couldn't be prouder. He continues to look for ways to improve their lives & has the best role model to gain wisdom from.
Amanda McLendon
Bridesmaid
Amanda has been part of our family for over 30 years. She & Jason "DATED" in Jr High for a year or so. Then rekindled their flame in college. Needless to say, she has been part of our lives for a very long time! Amanda has raised 3 of my most favorite people on the planet! JACKSON, DREW, & LANDON. When Amanda LOVES she LOVES COMPLETELY and WHOLEHEARTEDLY!!! There is NO IN BETWEEN!!! She will do ANYTHING & EVERYTHING for HER FAMILY & the People that SHE LOVES!!!! She is a WONDERFUL PERSON!!! She has been extremely supportive of Richard & my relationship. She blew us away with a very special text inviting Richard to Jackson's Graduation Party. The Love & Acceptance Shown WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!!! We Adore YOU Jason, AMANDA, Jackson, Drew & Landon!!! THANK YOU ALL!!
Hutch Hooton
Groomsman
Hutch is my first born son! I could not wait to have! He has not only been the much anticipated delight of my life but everyone he has met!!! He is such an incredible person. He is outgoing, well mannered, and loves to laugh. He is sensitive and feels deeply. Hutch has had such a difficult time with losing his Father. He woke one morning and his whole world changed. He lost his Father and started puberty. What a "Perfect Storm!!!" He was extremely "ANGRY" and I was the "SAFE" one to direct it towards. Needless to say it was a difficult time for us all. I can happily say we are past the anger and we are close once again. Hutch absolutely ADORES Richard and is so supportive of our wedding and union as husband and wife. Hutch and Richard tell each other a million times a day that they love each other. So grateful and blessed that Hutch and Hudson have such a wonderful male role model.
Hudson Hooton
Groomsman
Hudson is my youngest son (11). I have never felt more honored to be loved by anyone. He is not quick to love (like me). It takes him a minute to warm up. When he was 6 we walked in a Mommy & Son Valentine Dance. He said "Mommy it feels like a I have a Boxer in my tummy!!" I knew that was social anxiety but what a precious way to describe it. He is introverted as I am extroverted, He holds my hand everywhere we go. He has promised he will hold my hand till he is 21. Then revised the promise stating you will be "so old" when I am 21 it will look like I am just helping an old lady. Hudson is an intelligent, witty & funny child. He is such a joy to be around. I am his person and honored to be. He teaches me interesting facts everyday. Richard ADORES Hudson & takes him to school everyday!!
Kelly McLendon
Bridesmaid
Kelly is Andy's Better Half!!! He waited a long time to meet the "Woman of His Dreams" & boy was she worth the wait. I was blessed to be in Andy & Kelly's Wedding. I got to know more about Kelly through her friends & family. More "GOODNESS" that of course I knew all along. Kelly is a very special person. She exudes Sweetness, Love, Loyalty, Thoughtfulness, Kindness, & God made she for Andy & Andy for her!! She is an "old soul" if you have ever heard the expression. She & Andy have 2 beautiful children Lauren 5 (Flower Girl) & infant son Andrew (Drew). Kelly is A WONDERFUL MOTHER!! My niece & nephew are lucky to have her as their Mother!!!! As I am to have her as a sister in law! We are honored to have Kelly & Andy stand with us on such a Special Day!
Landon McLendon
Groomsman
Landon is son of Jason & Amanda & I am the proud Aunt. Richard ABSOLUTELY ADORES THIS CHILD!!!!! As I always have. He is very special as all Jason & Amanda's children are....Jackson and Drew WE LOVE YOU!!!! Richard, has been blown away by Landon!!! He & Landon text often and share their highs & lows. Richard was so excited to ask Landon to be part of our special day!!!!! He thinks the world of this young man!!!! Landon is the first one to ask how he can help & what he can do. Richard has been so impressed with Landon. Jason and Amanda are wonderful parents but according to Richard you can't teach or instill this in a child he was born "SPECIAL AND ANNOINTED!!!" What an honor to have my 16 year old nephew stand beside us on our AMAZING DAY!!!! Thank You Landon!!!! And for you being YOU!!!!!
Scott Duncan
Groomsman
Scott grew up 3 houses from us. He was 2 years older than Jason my oldest brother. My brothers & he were best of friends! He in turn was my 3rd brother. He vacationed & spent a lot time with our family. Crazily, he has been my boss for almost 9 years. I started working for him in such a difficult time in my life with Robert's health issues. He was understanding, compassionate & is such a joy to work for..... But now let's get into why he is a Groomsmen. Richard ABSOLUTELY ADORES SCOTT! We had the pleasure of being with Liz & Scott at a concert. Richard thinks he is "THE BEST" And of course I agree!!!! It is EXCITING TO THINK ABOUT THE OLD CREW COMING TOGETHER WITH RICHARD & ME ON OUR DAY!!!!! THANK YOU SCOTT FOR EVERYTHNG!! I AM ETERNALLY GRATEFUL AND STRIVE TO MAKE YOU PROUD EVERYDAY!!!!
Lauren McLendon
Flower Girl
Lauren is my Precious 5 Year Old Niece, Daughter of Andy & Kelly McLendon. Lauren is the APPLE of Andy's EYE! SURPRISE SURPRISE! As mentioned Kelly being an outstanding Mother, ANDY IS A WONDERFUL FATHER AS WELL!! I have never seen this side of Andy. He has been so instrumental in my boys & Jackson, Drew, & Landon's lives but to see him with Lauren is a whole new picture. She has him wrapped around her finger. They are a special team!!!! He has "WOWED" everyone after teaching her the answers to "square roots!!!" "What's the square root of 100 Lauren?" "10 Daddy!!!!" I am so thrilled she will be our Flower Girl. She is so smart, funny, & entertaining. She Loves her Cousins Hutch & Hudson!!!! We can't wait to see her walk down the aisle & share this special day with her! Thank You Lauren!!!
Sharon McLendon
Mother of the Bride
THE BEST MOTHER & SHY SHY (GrandMother Name) ON THE PLANET! Jason once said "I would be in prison if it weren't for you." HE IS A DOCTOR! Jason & I were challenging. She never let us go to bed without talking. She would sit by the door, we had slammed & locked until we opened it. She loved us unconditionally & showed us everyday. Nothing was more important to her than being a "MOM." WHAT AN HONOR! We said our prayers everyday on the way to school. I have DONE with my boys. We never saw an animal on a road that didn't need rescuing or praying for. She has been instrumental in all our lives. Her love & determination is unwavering. We are all better people because of our Mother. The connection she has with MY BOYS is immeasurable. SHE IS GORGEOUS TOO!! I AM BLESSED TO HAVE YOU AS MY MOTHER!!!
Steve McLendon
Father of the Bride
My Daddy is a WONDERFUL CHRISTIAN & yes I call him Daddy! He was once described to me as the most difficult interview at Southwire. It made me ponder 'Would he hire me?" Dad Laughs Often, Adores Family, Cherishes My Mother, & Will Do Anything to Help in ALL Situations. He is SMART, HARD WORKING, DETERMINED, ETHICAL, DEPENDABLE & A WONDERFUL ROLE MODEL! He isn't one you call just to chat. But he is the first you call when you've had a success. When he does speaks you listen. He is task oriented & shares his LOVE thru ACTS OF SERVICE! He answers the phone "YES ALLISON?" Dad is a constant in all of our lives.He is not always cheerful, never chatty, but ALWAYS WITH US & FOR US! My Daddy is such a ROCK in our Family! No place he rather be than "THE FARM." DADDY I AM PROUD TO BE YOUR DAUGHTER!
Michelle Kitchens Loyd
Bridesmaid
Chelle Belle, Paige, D-NAM & I met @ 18 & pledged KD. She & I became Very Special Friends. We spent a lot of time together in college. I was sitting beside her when my vision left. She explained I was getting a migraine. She took me back to her dorm gave me medicine & let me lie down in her bed. First & last time I slept in a dorm bed. Her parents lived on Lake Lanier, I spent most weekends with her on the Lake in 1999. I met her now Husband when they started dating. They celebrate their 20th this year. Chelle is A Very Special Person!. Unbelievably Smart, Driven, Sensitive, Kind, Tender Hearted, GORGEOUS, & Excels at Her Career! She feels deeply! Only complaint is I don't see her enough! But like any true friend when we are together no time has passed! LIFE IS BETTER BECAUSE YOU ARE IN IT
Baylor Gibbs
Ring Bearer
Baylor is the first born of Kayla and Bennett Gibbs!!!! I was blessed to have kept him when he was 3 months old while Bennett and Kayla enjoyed a night out. Baylor is smart, sweet, funny, kind, handsome, well mannered, and the list goes on. We are so excited to have him share this special day with us as a ring bearer. He will do an excellent job.
Mike Younce, LCSW
Officiant
Mike Younce is not only a man I deeply respect but a FANTASTIC friend. Mike is Marsha's (Bridesmaid) Husband that I have known for almost 20 years. Mike has spoken wisdom in my life through the years. He is a no nonsense NO DRAMA type of Man. He has been supportive through difficult life trials and struggles. He has listened and shared effortlessly. He is such a WONDERFUL MAN!!!!! I am honored to know him and to call him a friend. He and Richard have a special relationship. They hit it off immediately. He has been very supportive of our relationship. To have Mike marry us is very special!!! Such a WONDERFUL FRIEND that has been apart of our journey with Love and Constant Support along the way. THANK YOU MIKE!!!!!!