1928
2016
Alma Jean Varnes, age 88, of Knoxville, passed away in her sleep October 11, 2016. Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. Lovingly referred to as "Mimi," she was the proud and respected matriarch of a family dynasty spanning over 70 years. She was a superb cook, and her recipes were highly-coveted and fiercely protected. Her desserts were on everyone's Thanksgiving and Christmas wish-lists, and she happily provided them. She is preceded in death by parents, Roy Sr. and Audrey Burchell; sisters Bonnie Mount and Eloise "Sis," Miller, and brother, Roy "Buddy" Burchell, Jr.; granddaughter, Christina Mabry; and great granddaughter, Breonna Varnes. She is survived by her caring and devoted husband of 70 years, Lester; sister, Mary, and brothers Bobby and Rudy. She was most proud of her five sons: Wayne (Pamela), Joey (Debbie), Dan (Debbie), David (Caroll), and Chris; and granddaughter Maleena (Brent), whom she considered a daughter. The other family members include 2 grandsons, 7 granddaughters, 4 great-grandsons, and 8 great-granddaughters. The members of the family she so proudly headed are so numerous that they cannot all be listed. The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm Thursday with the funeral service to follow at 7 pm in the chapel of Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, 2300 Adair Drive. Dr. Jim Henry will officiate. Interment will be 10 am Friday at Lynnhurst Cemetery. Pallbearers will be her sons and great grandson, Blake Watson. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Alzheimer's of East Tennessee. The family would also like to express their appreciation to the kind nurses at Covenant Hospice for making her comfortable in her final weeks. Condolences may be offered at www.berrylynnhurst.com
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October 14, 2016
Wayne, Pam and Family:
We are so sorry for your loss.
May God comfort you.
Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you.
Delmar and Jane Henegar
October 14, 2016
Prayers for you David and for your family to hold you up during this time of Grief. As the Lord provided a strong foundation during your mother's life that has now been turned into a place of welcome to Eternal life. Peace
Rev. Jeff And Cindy Tallent
October 14, 2016
Mike Hueser
Dan, Debbie and family, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
October 13, 2016
michael whitaker
Sorry for your loss; You will be in our prayers..
October 13, 2016
Dorothy (Foley) Saulsbury
I remember Jean cooking for us many times, making her own created sandwiches, and how much fun we had with her, This of course was many years ago when we were teenagers.
Love to the family, and especially to Mary my very good friend, God bless and keep you in His loving arms. Your friend,
Dorothy (Foley) Saulsbury
October 13, 2016
Donna Clanton
Denise and family may god be with you all at this sad time, Shes with jesus now, May she always rest in peace, Love you all
October 13, 2016
Linda Wright
Dan and family. So sorry for your loss, our thoughts & prayers are with you & your family.
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Oct
13
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home & Lynnhurst Cemetery2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918
Oct
13
7:00 p.m.
Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home & Lynnhurst Cemetery2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918
Oct
14
10:00 a.m.
Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home & Lynnhurst Cemetery2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918
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Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home & Lynnhurst Cemetery2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918
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