Willie Mae Jefferson

Willie Mae Jefferson, of Morristown, passed away peacefully at her home on January 6, 2026. A woman of deep and abiding faith, she departed this life with the joyful anticipation of meeting her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Willie Mae was a faithful member of Fairview Bible Baptist Church for over 60 years. Her devotion to her church family was evident through her many years of service as a Sunday School teacher, VBS Director, Willing Workers President, and Church Clerk. She also loved lifting her voice in the choir and sang a few solos.

Beyond her ministry, she was known for her remarkable work ethic. Willie Mae dedicated 35 years of service to Berkline, working in several departments before her retirement.

She was preceded in death by her son, Gene Jefferson; two daughters, Vicki Jarnigan and infant Brenda Sue; her ex-husband, Bert Jefferson; son-in-law, James Wilson; and grandson, Dana Wilson. She was also preceded by her parents, Lincoln Barnes and Willie Barnes Stevens, and siblings, Bill Barnes, Tom Barnes, and Mary Ellis.

Her legacy lives on through her devoted daughters, Linda Wilson and Traci Jefferson, and her son-in-law, Eddie Jarnigan. She was a cherished "Mamaw" to Jennifer (Jamie) Hodge, Bo Hoover, Adam (Trisha) Jefferson, and Jesse (Amanda) Wilson. Her light continues to shine in her great-grandchildren, Shyanne Jefferson, Ansleigh Hoover, and Isabella Wilson, and her great-great-granddaughter, Blakely Jefferson. She is also survived by her brothers, Ken (Glenda) Barnes and David (Marian) Barnes, as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Eula Dickerson, who was a steadfast friend and caregiver for over three years. She was like a daughter to Willie Mae. We also express our gratitude to Georgia Hawkins and the staff and nurses (especially Nurse Kayli) of Smoky Mountain Home Health and Hospice for the compassionate and tender care provided to Willie Mae during her final days. Your kindness provided great comfort to our family.

They will receive friends on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 6 to 8 PM, in the East Chapel of Allen Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 8 PM, with Rev. Chip Winstead and Rev. Lance Buchanan officiating. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11 AM, in Hamblen Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to support VBS at Fairview Bible Baptist Church or for the placement of Gideon Bibles through Gideons International, honoring Willie Mae’s lifelong love for the Word of God.

Allen Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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