Shirley Lucille Mynatt

    Shirley Lucille Mynatt, age 96, of Maynardville, went home to be with the Lord on January 18, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on June 26, 1929, and was born and raised during the Great Depression, an experience that shaped her strong work ethic, resilience, humility, and deep appreciation for family and faith. Shirley was a devoted Christian woman of strong and unwavering faith and a member of Nave Hill Baptist Church. She lived her life as a reflection of Christ’s love—always willing to lend a helping hand, offer a kind word, or pray with those in need. She was lovingly known as “Mamaw” to many, a name that carried warmth, wisdom, and unconditional love. Shirley retired from Knox Porcelain Corporation in Knoxville, Tennessee, after decades of faithful service. She was a proud military wife and mother, standing faithfully beside her husband, Linvil Mynatt “Junior,” who served his country during World War II. Her sons, David and Jerry, also proudly served in the United States military.

     She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 69 years, Linvil Mynatt “Junior”; her parents, Homer and Jessie Sorey; all seven of her siblings; and her son-in-law, Msg. Ballard Rice.

     She is survived by her daughter, Sheila Rice; her sons, David (Wanda) Mynatt, Jerry (Jerri) Mynatt, Greg (Jeanette) Mynatt, and Danny Mynatt; grandchildren, David (Gerlinde) Rice, David Mynatt, Shea (Jackie) Ervin, Jason Mynatt, Daniel (Gracie) Rice, Joshua Mynatt (U.S. Navy), Jennifer (Jason) Linderman, and Derrick (Brittney) Rice; 15 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; and Brittney Crawford, who was cherished as family—a beloved granddaughter in every way and a devoted caregiver—along with her dear friend and caregiver, LeeAnn Kelly, all of whom were a great joy and blessing in her life. Shirley’s life was marked by faith, service, and an unwavering love for her family. Her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched and the generations who lovingly called her Mamaw.

     Pallbearers will be Derrick Rice, Daniel Rice, Jason Mynatt, Joshua Mynatt, Tyler Ervin, Isaac Ervin, and Seth Monroe. Honorary Pallbearers will be Kaison Rice, David Rice, David Mynatt. Visitation will be held at Mynatt Funeral Home – Halls Chapel on January 21, 2026, beginning at 5:00 p.m., with a funeral service to follow at 7:00 p.m., officiated by Rev. Eddie Muncey. Family and friends will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the funeral home and proceed to New Loyston Memorial Gardens for a 2:00 p.m. graveside and burial service.