Mardell Henry

Mardell “Doll” Henry was born October 6, 1947, to the late Willie Cline and Annie Pearl Howard in Panola, AL. She moved with her parents and siblings to Knoxville in 11950 and attended public schools. She accepted Christ, age the age of 9, and was baptized in 1957.

Mardell held several positions during her career which included being one of the first African American engravers at two of the largest jewelry stores in Downtown Knoxville. She worked as a daycare assistant until her health began to decline. She was also a member of Howard Circle of Friends.

She loved caring for others, especially her twin sons, Adam and Abel, who were the apples of her eye. She also took immense pride in nurturing her grandchildren. Anyone who knew Mardell knew she inherited her mother’s way around the kitchen and a grill. It was guaranteed you would have a delicious meal.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bobbie Lee Moore; brother-in-law, Robert Lee Taylor and aunt, Lillie Reece.

She leaves to cherish memories with sons, Adam and Abel; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; brother, Willie (Joyce) Howard, Jr. of Knoxville, TN; sisters, Revernell Taylor of Chicago, IL, Reverend Willie Mae Howard of Knoxville, TN, Malinda (Anthony) Twitty of Killeen, TX and Sherrine (Reverend Eugene) Carter of Knoxville, TN; aunt, Armentha Washington of Chicago, IL; loving and devoted cousin, Cynthia (Steven) Templin of Knoxville, TN; devoted friends, Dorothy Ann Jenkins, Delzia Johnson and Gloria “Traci” McDowell; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Monday, August 9, 2021, a public walkthrough is scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Mount Calvary Baptist Church, 1807 Dandridge Avenue, Knoxville TN.  Social distancing and face coverings are required.  A graveside service will follow at New Gray Cemetery, where a white dove release will conclude the service.  Flowers may be delivered to the church the morning of the walkthrough.  Professional arrangements entrusted to Patton Funeral Home, Brian L. Buckmon, LFD 1-800-824-8283 or www.pattonfuneralhome1962.com. 

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