Peggy Idell

Peggy Idell, 76, of Greeneville, a devout woman of faith, passed away Friday at Johnson City Medical Center.

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7-8.

She and her husband, the late Billy Idell, were married for 54 years. They carried a special bond founded in Christ that left a lasting legacy for her family of what God intended for marriage. Billy became the man he was because of the way Peggy supported him. "The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain." Proverbs 31:11.

Peggy lived a servant lifestyle giving her time to several different organizations. She was very active as a member of Union Temple Free Will Baptist Church. She served for decades in different capacities teaching children and adult classes, leading Vacation Bible School, and singing special songs. She also helped found and lead the churches Joy Group.

She was a volunteer at Laughlin Memorial Hospital and spent a lot of her time helping at the Greene County Food Bank. She truly displayed being the hands and feet of Jesus as she was always ready to serve. "Send portions to anyone who has nothing prepared… The joy of the Lord is my strength" Nehemiah 8:10b.

Peggy nourished a special bond in her family that will be passed down for generations.

Anyone that knew her, knew that she had a great love for her family by the way she spoke about them. She created a welcoming home that always had an open door available to gather and fellowship together. During her last day, she had her family surrounding her just as she had wanted. She believed we were better together. This extended far beyond her family into the local community bringing people of all faiths together.

She is survived by three sons and two daughters-in-law: Mike and Regina Idell of Afton, Jeff and Lisa Idell of Greeneville; and Keith Idell of Asheville, North Carolina; four grandsons and their spouses: Matt and Emily Idell, Eric and Claire Idell, Josh and Madison Idell, and Jordan and Maddie Idell; great-grandchildren: Parker Idell, Cole Idell, Hudson Idell, Olivia Idell. Jack Idell, Silas Dean Idell, and Hadley Cate Idell due in December; a special friend: Kyle Henry; nieces and nephews: Teresa Melton, Johnny Melton, Becky Melton, and Timothy Lawson; and a special niece: Robin Idell.

She was preceded in death by her mother: Lula Mae Melton; a sister: Tina Lawson; and a brother: Brownlow Melton.

The family will receive friends from 2-5 p.m. Sunday at Jeffers Funeral & Cremation Service, Afton chapel.

The funeral service will be Monday at 2 p.m. in Jeffers Afton Chapel. The Rev. Ivan Kennedy and the Rev. Roger Dykes will officiate.

Interment will follow in Graceland Memorial Gardens.

Her Grandsons, Wayne Hughes and Mark Ramsey, will serve as pallbearers.

Thoughts and memories may be shared with the family at www.jeffersmortuary.com .