Gaye Jean (Fortner) Villerreal

Gaye Jean Fortner Villerreal was born on February 12, 1957 to Norma Fortner and Jay Fortner (who died unexpectedly prior to her birth) in Knoxville, TN where she lived her entire life. After a valiant 14 month battle with ovarian cancer, she passed away peacefully on October 26, 2023 surrounded by those she loved most - her beloved, cherished daughter, Emily June Brewer, her dear sister, Cheryl Fortner, and her devoted husband, Jimmy Villerreal who was by her side every step of the way during her cancer journey. Gaye was a caring, compassionate person who followed her Mother’s footsteps and chose nursing as her career. While working as an RN at St. Mary’s Hospital, she continued her education at the University of TN, finishing with a Masters degree in nursing and becoming a lifelong Vols fan. She began the last chapter of her career at HealthCare 21 where she thrived, ultimately becoming CEO, and gaining recognition as an expert in her industry.

However, her life was not all about work! She enjoyed many wonderful friendships, including a special group known as the “lake friends” with whom she and her husband spent countless hours hanging out on the lake, watching the Vols, and hosting for their annual Christmas party. There were also many memorable trips seeing different parts of the country and the world, and innumerable trips to her happy place, Litchfield Beach, SC. Gaye had a love for fashion and wore it well, always looking polished with the perfect accessories.

She was also preceded in death by the best Mother ever, who she missed greatly and her special aunt, June Vannoy (who was like a second mother), two sets of loving grandparents, several aunts and uncles and stepfather, William Bird, who embraced the role of Poppy to Emily.

Those she leaves behind will cherish her memory and always be grateful for having her loving presence in their lives. In addition to Emily, Cheryl and Jimmy, Gaye is survived by stepchildren, Christi (Jason) Shields, Ryan (Ashley) Villerreal and grandchildren, Leigh and Ethan Shields. Plus an aunt, uncle, and cousins.

The family greatly appreciates the excellent care provided by Dr. Jonathan Boone and his team and the tremendous support and encouragement from Dr. Veera Motashaw for the entire family and her tireless efforts to make Gaye’s difficult journey as easy and pain free as possible. We also have endless gratitude for the healing support of Carolyn Jones. The hospice and nursing staffs at UT Medical Center provided exceptional care around the clock.

Family will receive friends Monday, October 30th from 12-2pm with funeral service at 2pm at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home with Pastor Randy Frye officiating. A graveside service will directly follow at Lynnhurst Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.berrylynnhurst.com for the Villerreal family.