Ellen Irene McGinnis

Ellen “Irene” McGinnis, age 97 of Knoxville, passed away on June 15, 2026. Born to Alonzo and Esther Heck on July 7, 1928 in Hawkins County, TN, she was raised alongside her 10 siblings. She was a member of Arlington Baptist Church. Irene worked at Fort Sanders Hospital for 32 years before retiring. After retiring, she became bored and started working at Fort Sanders for another 6 years. She will be remembered as one of the most loving, giving, and caring individuals.

She was preceded in death by her former husband and lifelong friend, Clarence McGinnis. The two shared 48 years of marriage and remained close friends who continued to celebrate family gatherings and special occasions together throughout the years. She is also preceded by grandson Byron and siblings Bertha, Alice, Cornia, Roxie, Oliver, Iva, Kyle, and Maxine.

Survived by her four children whom she loved deeply, Jerry McGinnis (Joann), Brenda McGinnis, Rick McGinnis (Candie), and Carla Johnson (Ben), grandchildren James (Alyssa), Jeff (Laura), John, Kelly (John), Jacob (Maria), Adam (Panda), Shawn, and Jessica, 12 great-grandchildren, 6 great-great-grandchildren, sisters Wanda Woods and Dolly Sexton, several nieces and nephews. Special thank you to Irene’s neighbor, Brenda Cross for her love and care.

Family and friends will meet at 10:45am on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at Greenwood Cemetery for an 11:00am graveside service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mynattfh.com