Earth has lost and Heaven has gained a precious soul with the passing of Louise Dills McKinney (nee Cross). She was preceded in death by her parents Maude and John Cross, sister, Geneva, brothers, Roy, Claude, Raymond, Aubry, and their spouses. She was also preceded in death by nephews Darrell, Steve and Dwight Cross and great-nephew P.J. Anderson. Husbands Leon Dills and David McKinney also passed before Louise. Surviving are her nephew Ronnie and nieces Katherine, Marilyn, Sharon, Janice, Mary Jane, Rebecca, Charlotte, and Roberta, stepdaughter Shirley and several great-nieces and nephews.
Louise had a deep love for family. She cared for her father and mother for many years and married only later in life. When mentioning that she had no children, she always said that instead, she had her nieces and nephews. And, she had an exceptional bond with her eight nieces. Following surgery a few years ago, her local nieces kept a constant vigil over her at the hospital, staying with her 24 hours a day for several weeks. Although no longer caregivers, their devotion to Louise continued when she was moved to a Knoxville nursing home. Fortunately, during these times many, many beautiful stories and memories were shared. She and her brother Raymond were the closest siblings in age and Louise loved to share stories about their escapades.
Always her own person and fiercely independent, Louise pursued her goals with unparalleled focus. She was a dedicated employee, having worked at JC Penney; at Kresge as the candy counter manager; at a local box company as bookkeeper and assistant to the owner; and finally, back at JC Penney, coming full circle with her Knoxville career.
Louise was a faithful Christian, attending every service and working in every aspect of her church’s activities. Her love of and dedication to family extended to her church family and she was first in line when help was needed. She served as Clerk and Treasurer of her church, as well as volunteering in their food and clothing pantry ministry. Her contributions to her church are simply too numerous to list.
Reverend Roy Bennett is honoring the family as the funeral officiant at Berry Highland West, 9913 Sherrill Blvd., in Knoxville. Visitation is Sunday, July 21st at 2:00PM, followed by the funeral service at 3:00PM. Interment is Monday, July 22nd at 11:00AM, at the same location, where friends and family are invited to share their memories of Louise.
Louise was the last of her generation in our family. We have lost a precious loved one and an irreplaceable link to our pasts. Louise would tell everyone to celebrate and share their faith, to be honest to a fault, and to hug every day the ones they love.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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