ATHENS, Tenn. — A fast-food restaurant here is home to three separate groups, each called The Liars Club, each meeting at a different time and some since the Hardee’s opened more than 15 years ago.

At least, that’s what they say.

“Somebody once wanted to change this to the House of Truth, but got de-churched real quick,” 85-year-old Doak Willet said.

Over the years about 21 of the club members have passed away, and surviving members have decided to honor their fallen comrades on a large plaque with brass plates bearing the names of their friends. It is on display at the restaurant.

Among those names are former store owner Felix Harrod, Scott Mayfield of dairy fame, banker Hugh Willson and building supply store owner George Clark.

The owners of the Hardee’s now object to the plaque, said longtime member Joe Crabtree.

He said club members want to display the plaque all the time, while the owners want to pull it out when a club member dies.

“This isn’t a sad thing, it’s a thing to be proud of,” Mr. Crabtree said.

Hardee’s manager Sharon McRae said the plaque is larger than expected, and that may be the reason owners are thinking of removing it.

The Liars Club “first shift” meets about 6 a.m., the second about 7:30 a.m., and the third, which some call the brunch bunch, usually gathers after 8 a.m.

“It’s sort of a soap opera here,” plumber and electrician Lowell Cantrell said. “You can be gone a month, and you don’t miss a thing. Everyone stops on their way in to see if their name is on the plaque.”

Mr. Crabtree said the Liars Club is known throughout town. There are business owners and laborers, from retirees to men in their 50s. All told, there are about 50 members in the three shifts.

Ms. McRae said workers know all of the men’s names, and, asked if the club name holds true, she replied, “I think it does.”