The Making of a Gentleman 2024

Having lived in every Southeastern state before moving to Tennessee, I have been mentored by many who have instilled upon me a deep sense of what it means to be a “gentleman.” My parents taught me to be considerate and respectful of others and, above all, to “mind your manners.” During my early years, I thought “yes, sir” was a single word. “Yes” or “No” standing alone was not an option. I have been fortunate to have practiced law in Chattanooga for over 48 years. The adage that “no matter how flat the pancake, there are always two sides” has guided my legal career. Treating others with respect and with an understanding of their views are keystones to being a gentleman. My wife and I are blessed beyond measure to have raised our two sons in a faith-based community. I am grateful to God for those who have touched my life and have shaped my journey.

Bill Godbold
Attorney,
Leitner, Williams, Dooley & Napolitan, PLLC

I began my journey from humble beginnings in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, deeply influenced by my parents and community leaders. My mother’s unwavering support and my father’s disciplined yet non-judgmental approach provided a strong foundation. As I became a bank executive, entrepreneur, and real estate developer, I was fortunate to have mentors and supporters who opened doors for me, including those within my financial institution and fraternities. This support was crucial in shaping my career. Today, as a community leader and founder of The Lytle Foundation, I remain committed to the principle that service to the community is both rewarding and honorable. I believe that with the opportunities and success I’ve achieved, it is my responsibility to give back and make a positive impact, guided by the belief that “to whom much is given, much is required.”

Travis Lytle Sr.
Senior Vice President,
SmartBank

I am grateful for those who have invested in me and modeled what it means to be a faithful husband, dad, worker, friend, and leader, all grounded in my faith in Jesus Christ. Despite my selfish pride, desire for control, and pursuit of significance, I learned unconditional love and respect from my parents, grace and resilience from my bride and our three kids, the importance of prioritizing family from my siblings, grandparents, and extended relatives, and the privilege of serving others from my teachers, baseball coaches, coworkers, pastors, friends, and mentors. As a Chattanooga native, I am thankful for the opportunity to graduate from McCallie School and UTC, and to serve two impactful organizations with remarkable people, cultures, and communities: Southern Champion Tray, where I learned “To serve customers . . . in ways that value people and glorify God,” and McCallie, where I learned “honor, truth, duty” and “Man’s chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever.”

T. W. Francescon, Jr.
Senior Director – Alumni Culture & Engagement,
McCallie School