Mary Jean Padgett (Talley) Moore

Mary Jean Talley Padgett Moore, beloved daughter of Thomas Woodson Talley and Nell Samples Talley, entered eternal rest on Saturday, September 7, 2024.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Louis Norman Padgett; her second husband, Vodra H. Moore; sister, Pauline Keller (Alec Keller); brothers, Ralph Talley and Frank Talley; and sister, Lucille Wagner (John Wagner).

Mary Jean’s legacy lives on through her children, Pamela Eubank (Geoff Eubank), Anthony Padgett (Lisa Wacker Padgett), Rebecca Jean Wright (Delain Wright), and Timothy Padgett (Lisa M. Desisto Padgett). She is also survived by her nephew, Wayne Keller (Mary Margaret); niece, Jan Keller; great-nephew, Brian Keller (Stacie Keller); and stepchildren, Hugh Moore (Ann Cross), Robert F. Moore (Mary), and Elizabeth Moore.  Her cherished grandchildren include Nathan Eubank (Jessie), Sarah Eubank (Joel), Amanda Eubank, Weston Wright, Talley Wright Sperling (Zach), Amberly Wright Karelitz (Gregory), Amelia Wright, Price Padgett (Chelsea), Austin Padgett (Angela), Fielding Padgett, Wilson Padgett, and Andrew Padgett; step grandchildren, Jeremy (Candy) Moore and Rodney (Kellie) Moore; along with numerous great-grandchildren.

Mary Jean was a dedicated family historian and co-author of the Talley Calfee historic family genealogy publication. Her passion for uncovering her family's past was evident throughout her life. She meticulously researched and shared countless stories of her ancestors, always ensuring her tales were grounded in truth and supported by evidence. Her love for history and tradition led her on journeys to Ireland, England, and France, where she delighted in exploring graveyards and uncovering the threads of her heritage.

For over 30 years, Mary Jean was a devoted member of Leadvale Church, where her deep faith in God guided her life. She treasured her Tennessee roots and always considered the Smoky Mountains her true home, returning to Tennessee from Ohio in 1984 when she married Vodra Moore.

Mary Jean was known for her intelligence, curiosity, and boundless creativity. She found beauty in the world around her and inspired her family to cherish their own heritage. She had a low tolerance for gossip, a strong commitment to her values, and a relentless desire to learn something new every day. She taught her children the importance of kindness, integrity, and treating others with respect.

Her legacy of love, wisdom, and unyielding passion for her family's history will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. Mary Jean left an indelible mark on this world, and her presence will be deeply missed. She is undoubtedly continuing her cherished research among her beloved ancestors in heaven.

We love you, Mom. Your stories, lessons, and spirit will forever be with us.

A funeral service will be held at 3 PM, on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at New Home Church in Cocke County, with Delain Wright and Rev. Geoff Eubank officiating. Graveside services will follow in the New Home Church Cemetery.

In Lieu of Flowers, memorial donations in Mary's honor can be made to: FOH Serenity House, 421 N. High Street, Morristown, TN 37814 and/or New Home Church Cemetery, C/O Dale Huskey, 220 Walk Way, Newport, TN 37821.

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