TN didn't require death records until 1914 and even then it took a few years before everyone complied and filed the records with the counties. Chattanooga and Hamilton Co. recorded a few before that but the records are not complete. (Some of these records can be requested and viewed through the Church of Latter Day Saints' Family History Centers). You can also request records from the Tennessee State Library and Archive. Their website http://www.state.tn.us/sos/statelib/pubsvs/intro.htm also has a small index for some early death records. I have had more luck establishing 'date of death' through obituaries. The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Library has a wonderful data base on line. You can't view the obits but you can research names and general dates and then order a copy. Best of luck! Mary