Maurice Rawlings
Dr. Maurice Rawlings, 87, of Chattanooga, died on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010, at his residence.
He was a longtime resident of Chattanooga, and had served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
Dr. Rawlings was physician to President Dwight Eisenhower, and served as physician to the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He was an associate clinical professor of medicine for the University of Tennessee and a National Teaching Faculty for the American Heart Association.
Dr. Rawlings also served as medical director for Aventis and ZLB Bio-Science Labratories.
Dr. Rawlings was the author of several books, including, "Beyond Death's Door," "Before Life Comes," "Life Wish" and "To Hell and Back," published in several languages. His first and last publications were made into movies.
Dr. Rawlings was a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, Angiology and Chest Physicians; a diplomat for the American Board of Cardiology; and served as chairman for the TVA Medical Retirement Board.
Dr. Rawlings was also a licensed private pilot, with both instrument and multi-engine ratings.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Martha Emilia Rawlings.
He is survived by a son, Maurice S. Rawlings Jr., M.D.; four daughters, Ann Elizabeth Rawlings, M.D., Norfolk, Va., Susan Rawlings Dowis, Rainsville, Al., Patricia Rawlings Prouty, Chickamauga, Ga., and Margaret Rawlings Pearce, Chattanooga; and a sister, Ruth Rawlings Miller, Clearwater, Fl.; 11 grandchilden; and four great-grandchilden.
Visit www.heritagefh.com to share words of comfort to the family and view the memorial tribute.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 8, at Brainerd Baptist Church with Pastor Robby Gallaty and Harry Eustice Officiating.
Interment will be in Forest Hills Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 519 E. Fourth St., Chattanooga, Tn. 37403, or to Brainerd Baptist Church 300 Brookfield Ave., Chattanooga, Tn. 37411.
The family will receive friends from 4-8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 7, at Heritage Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 7454 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421.