Carolyn Cruze Mynatt

Carolyn Cruze Mynatt, age 98 of Knoxville, TN, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024. She was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church. She leaves behind the love of her life and husband of 79 years, James D. Mynatt “Bud”. They met at Central High School, from where they both graduated. They were married in December of 1944 upon Bud’s return from his European tour of duty as a heavy bomber pilot in WWII. Since then, each December they gathered together with many friends, family and neighbors to celebrate their anniversary. In 1956, Carolyn joined St. Mary’s Hospital eventually becoming their business manager. With the computer age arriving, she was instrumental in getting all St. Mary’s business and patient accounts computerized. In the early 70’s, Bud and Carolyn joined the Fort Loudon Yacht Club. Carolyn served on committees for entertainment and beautification of the yacht club. They enjoyed cruising the Tennessee River and being part of the Vol Navy for many years. After an early retirement from St. Mary’s, she turned her attention, energy and talent to gardening. Carolyn created a beautiful landscape for her home which became an open garden for the Dogwood Arts Festival for many years. She was a member of the Deane Hill Garden Club which was very active in the beautification of the neighborhood, community and state wide beautification and service projects. During her 30 years as a member, she served as president several times. With her sparkling personality, smile and many talents she made whatever she touched better or more beautiful. Carolyn is preceded in death by her parents Mildred (Ayres) and Roy Cruze; sister and brother-in-law, Barbara Ann (Cruze) Kromer and O.C. “Buddy” Kromer; and brother-in-law, William “Bill” Sosna. She is survived by her husband of 79 years, James D. “Bud” Mynatt; daughter, Jeanne Mynatt Scholze; grandson, Jason Scholze and his wife Brittany; great grandchildren, Jacob, Halle and Carston Scholze; beloved sister, Betty (Cruze) Sosna; and many wonderful nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. A private celebration of her life will be held with close family and friends at her home, presided by Pastor Brent McDougal. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to First Baptist Church (https://fbcknox.org/give/) , St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/give/memorials-and-dedications.html?sc_icid=wtg-mm-memorial-giving) or Deane Hill Garden Club. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rosefuneraltn.com

Tributes

Carolyn Cruze Mynatt

June 15, 2024