Ella Blevins

Ella Blevins

Ella Jean Blevins, affectionately known as Jean, passed away on February 22, 2025, in Riceville, Tennessee. She was born on October 7, 1929, in Cleveland, Tennessee. Jean was preceded in death by her husband Argile Blevins, father and mother, John and Laura Walker, brother Kenneth (and Geneva) Walker.

She is survived by her children: Mickey (and Kelly) Blevins, Scotty (and Tonya) Blevins, and Jennifer (and Don) Patterson; grandchildren: Leighann (and Josh) Giles, Katie (and Cameron) Brewster, Whitney (and Gerardo) Frank, Josh Patterson (and Cassidy Balkom), Noah Blevins (and Abby James), and Derek Blevins; great grandchildren: Landyn and Adleigh Giles, Leighton and Campbell Brewster, Luca and Leo Frank; sister, Ruth (and Gene) Disharoon, brother Lynn (and Loretta) Walker; as well as many beloved sisters and brothers in law and nephews and nieces; and special friend, Helen Chalkley.

She was known for her sharp wit, kindness, and devotion to her family and church community. For nearly sixty years, Jean played the piano at Sanford Church, attending every service and special event, where her musical talents brought joy to many. You were sure to find her there in her pew and if you sat with her you were offered a piece of double mint or juicy fruit gum (or if you were a grandchild, a special sticker book).

One cherished memory is how she single-handedly kept the Hardee's in Calhoun open for years. Many Sundays, grandchildren in the back of her Oldsmobile, she'd head to Hardee's. She'd always get a bacon biscuit "Extra bacon! Extra crispy." The family still fondly remembers her reaction when they switched to Colombian coffee, a change she struggled to accept.

Jean loved porch swinging, people watching, long drives, and telling you what that building used to be when she was a little girl. She loved reading books, magazines, newspapers, and working through puzzle books. She loved TV and game shows. On any given day you'd pull up to find her watching Wheel of Fortune or the Price is Right and eating her "afternoon dessert." She was always way better than any of the contestants on the shows. She kept muffins, oatmeal, lunchables, and scrambled eggs on hand for the grandkids and was most known for her chicken and dumplings, hash brown casserole, and pumpkin pie.

Jean's impact on her family and friends was profound; she leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering support. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A Funeral Service will be held on February 25, 2025 at 7:00pm at Sanford Baptist Church (2415 County Road, Riceville, TN) with Pastor Stan Cantrell and Don Patterson officiating the service. A Visitation will be held prior from 5:00pm-7:00pm. A Graveside Service will be held Wednesday, February 26 at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Cleveland, TN at 1:00pm. The Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.