Memorial Page

Honoring Those Who Made The Nashville Fair a Tradition of Joy and Community

This memorial page is dedicated to the beloved individuals who have left an indelible mark on The Nashville Fair through their passion, dedication, and love. Their contributions have helped shape the fair into a vibrant celebration that brings our community together year after year.

If we have inadvertently overlooked anyone, please contact us via email or phone.

STRICKLAND, GOMERY JR. "Buddy"

Buddy Strickland was born on February 17, 1949 in Whiteville, North Carolina and passed away on December 21, 2024 in Hillsborough County, Florida.76, Buddy was a vendor at the Tennessee State Fair from the early 80’s and one of our first vendors to sign up for The Nashville Fair. He sold his signature funnel cakes and was the exclusive vendor of the Deep Fried Goo Goo.His daughter Contessa keeps the family tradition alive to this day!

Billy Waymon Stephens

Billy Waymon Stephens,Sr. was born on June 13, 1941, to the late Casto and Alene (Dodson) Stephens in Wilder, Tennessee and passed away on December 29, 2024, in the Woodbine community of Nashville, Tennessee.

Bill spent many years working for the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway and the Tennessee State Fair. In 2019 he received the Hale Moss Distinguished Service Award for his years of service. He was a dedicated supporter of The Nashville Fair and his stories will be cherished with the staff.