Grace Irene Boatman Beckner

Grace Irene Boatman Beckner, age 91, passed away September 17, 2017, at Parkwest Medical Center, Knoxville. Grace was born November 28, 1925, to John Henry Boatman and Grace Mays Boatman. Born the first girl after 5 boys, she was lovingly called Sister by her family and friends. She developed her strong work ethic by working in her father’s store at age 13. Later, she worked for White Stores where she met Lyle Beckner, whom she married in January 1948. Their 39-year marriage ended with his death in 1987. In addition to raising two boys, Grace also worked outside the home. Over the years, Grace was a bookkeeper for Lerner Shops in Knoxville, a city school cafeteria worker, playground leader for the Knoxville Recreation Bureau, a cashier and Department Head for W.T. Grants, and her favorite job, cashier for the University of Tennessee Food Service Department. Grace worked to the age of 73, well past the time most people of her generation had retired. Even after retiring, she frequently talked about missing the students and co-workers. She worked constantly at improving herself by learning shorthand in night school and taking accounting classes at UT. She was constantly reading, sewing, or working crossword puzzles. During her life, she witnessed both of her sons and her grandson graduate from the University of Tennessee. Grace was a lifelong member of Lonsdale United Methodist Church, Knoxville. She is survived by her younger sister, Hazel Catherine Duncan Stout, sons John (and his wife Diana) and Gary, and a grandson, Jonathan. There were numerous nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank the staff of NHC Oak Ridge for her care over the past 9 years. While no one wants to be in a care facility, they made her feel wanted and loved. They also worked hard to see she received good food and care. The family also appreciates the efforts of Parkwest Hospital in her final days. The family expresses thanks to Angela Threat, Tanisha Smith-Wimes, and Susan May. The family will receive friends Thursday, September 21 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, at ROSE MORTUARY BROADWAY CHAPEL. Funeral services will follow at 7:00 PM with Reverend Walter Cross officiating. Family and friends will meet at 9:45 am Friday, September 22, at Sherwood Memorial Gardens, for a 10:00 AM interment service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lonsdale UMC Food Pantry P.O. Box 5565, Knoxville, TN 37928. Online obituary may be viewed and condolences made at www.rosemortuary.com.

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Grace Irene Boatman Beckner

November 28, 1925 - September 17, 2017