Judith Spradlin

Judith Lee Payne Spradlin "Judy", age 81, of Greeneville, Tennessee, passed away on December 5, 2025, in the presence of her family.

Judy was born in Charlottesville, Virginia and her family traveled later in her adolescent years to Tucson, Arizona, and a brief year residing in her birth state prior to relocating to the hills of Appalachia as her father served in the US Air Force. She later met her husband where they shared life for 58 years before his death.

Many friendships were established during her years of employment at the legendary Greene Valley Developmental Center but more so, her extensive career path leading her for 20 years with Holston Home for Children as she served as Director of the Bewley Center. Her services throughout the duration of her leadership were recognized as exemplary. A tender and maternal role providing both love and direction to many, she was extraordinary in her giving and was loved and respected by residents of both the Bewley Center and Hull residents to include a multitude of staff. She represented fairness, exceptional patience and unconditional love to all.

Her heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains allowed her discovery of the spirit of Nature, the endless blessings of flowers, a homegrown garden and the beauty of the natural world. She was an attentive gardener, admired for her rose arbor, Koi pond, hydrangeas, flower bed designs and thriving gifted plants. An avid gardener didn't outshine her abilities as an established in home "Appalachian Chef". The aromatic flavorings followed one from the exterior of her farmhouse home into the magic of her interior space. Cooking. Preparing. Serving. Joy. There was always a place at her table.

Each dish delivered her immense love for others. Her culinary skills appeared almost magical, just as she intended.

Judy is survived by her daughter, Desiree Johnson (Marty); her son, Cameron Spradlin; her grandsons, Ryan Spradlin of Nashville and Ethan Spradlin of Greeneville; her granddaughters, Sarah Emory of Waynesboro, VA, and Mia Spradlin of Greeneville; her siblings, Kenneth Payne (Cindi) and Trudy Payne Wallack, all of Greeneville. She is preceded in death by her husband, F.T.(Mickey) Spradlin; son-in-law, Michael Emory; daughter, Trina Emory; grandson, Trevor Emory; and her parents, Lonzo and Edith Payne.

She was a devoted aunt to numerous nieces and nephews, including those of both the great and great-great generations and leaves relatives in areas of South Carolina, Virginia, Washington state, Kingsport and Greeneville. Though her health declined in her final year, she still inquired about everyone. An endless lover of life and family, friends and strangers, her spirit shall forever live within those she touched.

The family wishes to acknowledge with gratitude Dr. Cox and staff of Ballad Health East in Greeneville,Tennessee. In addition, the utmost appreciation for her in-home caregivers, Marian Bridges and Maria Chambers.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.