Conda Bruce McGinnis

Conda Bruce McGinnis, age 84, of Knoxville, Tennessee, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior after a life marked by unwavering faith, devoted service, and deep love for his family.

Born on December 1, 1941, Conda lived with a steadfast commitment to Christ that shaped every aspect of his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Iva McGinnis; his sisters, Bobby Brown and Evelyn Sutherland; and his brother, Curtis McGinnis.

He leaves behind his beloved wife and lifelong companion, Joyce McGinnis, whose comfort, happiness, and well-being were among his greatest earthly priorities. Their marriage was a testimony of enduring love, faithfulness, and devotion. He is also survived by his children: Coni Burrow and husband Jackie Burrow, Rick McGinnis and wife Trish, and Tim McGinnis.

In addition, he is survived by his brother, Harvey McGinnis and wife Margie, and his sister, Carolyn Hayes and husband Bill, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who were blessed by his life and testimony.

Conda was a cherished grandfather to Nick Burrow and wife Kasey, Tabitha Burrow, Chasity McGinnis, Courtney Leatherwood and husband Josh, Sean McGinnis and wife Courtney, and Alyssa Yates and husband Jonathan. He was further blessed with seven treasured great-grandsons, who brought immeasurable joy to his later years and held a special place in his heart.

Before answering God’s call to full-time ministry, Conda faithfully worked for Southern Railroad for 28 years. Yet it was his passion for the Gospel that ultimately defined his life’s work. Surrendering himself fully to the Lord’s service, he devoted his life to preaching Christ and sharing the hope of salvation. He faithfully pastored LaFollette Baptist Temple and New Testament Baptist Church, where his compassionate heart, powerful preaching, and unwavering commitment to Scripture impacted countless lives. Through his ministry, many came to know Jesus Christ as their Savior, a legacy that will continue long after his passing.

To know Conda was to know a man who genuinely loved people. He never met a stranger and was always ready with a helping hand, a word of encouragement, or a song. Family and friends often remarked that he seemed to have a tune for every occasion, filling ordinary moments with music, laughter, and joy.

While he loved many things in life, nothing compared to his love for his family and his devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ. He poured himself into those he loved, constantly encouraging them, supporting them, and praying for them. His greatest desire was not earthly success, but that his family would know and follow the Savior he loved so dearly.

Conda lived with a confident hope rooted in the promises of God. He looked forward to the day when faith would become sight, when he would stand before his Redeemer and lay every crown at His feet. That day has now come. Though his family grieves his absence, they rejoice in the assurance that he is resting peacefully in the presence of his Savior, hearing the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”

His life was a testament to God’s grace, his ministry a reflection of God’s love, and his legacy one of faith, family, and eternal hope. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and joyfully reunited with those who know Christ in the days to come. 

The family will receive friends Thursday, June 11, 2026 from 5:00pm - 7:00pm with a 7:00pm funeral service to follow at Mynatt Funeral Home, Powell Chapel. Family and friends will meet Friday, June 12, 2026 at Greenwood Cemetery at 10:45am for an 11:00am graveside service.