Arthur Michael Ankrum

Arthur Michael Ankrum Sr., lovingly known as “Art” and “Papa,” passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, at the age of 82 in Thompson's Station, Tennessee. Born on October 27, 1942, in Sioux City, Iowa, Art grew up in Anthon, Iowa, where he attended school and formed the roots of his lifelong values of dedication, kindness, and community.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sue Ellen Ankrum (née Noto), with whom he shared a beautiful life of love and devotion.

Following high school, Art enlisted in the United States Air Force, proudly serving from 1961 to 1969. After his military service, he began a long and dedicated career with Oneida Ltd. in Sherrill, New York. He later took early retirement to join his children and grandchildren in Savannah, Georgia, where he worked at Dixie Crystal. Eventually, he moved to Franklin, and then to Spring Hill, Tennessee, where he completed his professional career with Affinion Group.

Art was a public servant and community advocate. During his years in Sherrill, NY, he served as a county legislator and volunteered with numerous charitable organizations. A lifelong member of the American Legion, he was most recently active at Post 19 in Columbia, TN.

An avid motorcycle enthusiast, Art found joy and fellowship in the open road, riding with groups such as the Spyder Ryder of America, Brothers of the Third Wheel, and the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association.

Art’s deepest joy came from being a family man. He is survived by his sons and their families: Mike (Alyssa) Ankrum of Spring Hill, TN, Jeff (Maggie) Ankrum of Thompsons Station, TN, grandchildren, Meredith Ankrum, Jeffery (Annabel) Ankrum, Katie Ankrum, Evan Ankrum, and siblings Wilbur (Jane) Ankrum of Washta IA, LeRoy (Debra) Ankrum of Adrian, MI, Stella (Phillip) Hayworth of Anthon, IA, Norma (Bill) Brasel of Anthon, IA, Jessie Holcomb of Anthon, IA, Larry (Rose) Ankrum of Canton, TX, sister in law, Gail Ankrum of Sioux City, IA, sister in law, Gail Combs, of Verona, NY, and brother in law, Peter Noto of Sherrill, NY.

He was preceded in death by his brother Ember Ankrum, sister Judy Ankrum, brother-in-law David Holcomb, sister-in-law Joan Noto, and sister-in-law Karen Shortell.

Art’s legacy is one of service, warmth, and connection. A man who never met a stranger, his charisma, sincerity, and devotion to others touched countless lives. His memory will live on through his family, friends, and the communities he loved and served.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Harpeth Christian Church, 1101 Gardner Dr, Franklin, TN, on Saturday, August 9, at 1:00 PM.

You may share condolences with the family at the Heritage Funeral Home website:

www.TnFunerals.com