Marcella Holder Wilson

Wilson, Marcella Holder , age 96, of Knoxville, left this life peacefully on March 5, 2013 with her beloved and devoted son by her side. Born in Bessemer, Alabama on February 4, 1917, Marcella was the youngest daughter of Sam Holder and Marcella Myrtle Murphree and proved from a young age that she wanted to live her life to the fullest. She was mischievous as a child and was often a social butterfly at local dances. She met her husband, Wilber Meade Wilson, Jr. in 1934 and they married on September 7, 1936 in Jacksboro, Tennessee. Marcella and Bill were given only one bundle of joy, their son, Wilbur Meade Wilson, III, affectionately known as Billy, and she was absolutely devoted to him. Marcella treasured every moment with her family and friends. Some of her happiest memories were spending time with her son and grandchildren at the family cabin on Cherokee Lake, playing bingo at the country club, talking on the phone with her friends, and absolutely everything about her great-grandchildren. Marcella was a woman of small stature, but her impact on those around her was anything but small. Her quick wit and her infectious laugh will be remembered by all who knew her and she leaves behind a legacy of strength and commitment to family values. Marcella was preceded in death by her parents, Sam and Myrtle Holder, husband, Wilber Meade Wilson, Jr., and sisters, Ethel Vance and Alice Power. She is survived by her beloved son, Billy and her granddaughters, Jennifer Williams (and husband Tim) and Michelle Ritter (and husband, Glenn). She also leaves behind five great-grandchildren: Kendall, Sylas, and Jenna Rose Williams and Katie and Knox Ritter. A special thanks is extended to Wilma with whom Marcella spent many evenings during the past year. The family also has a deep appreciation for Ruby, who not only cared for Marcella's needs but became a treasured member of the family, especially when it came to Marcella's pedicures! But words cannot express the impact of Geraldine McClure's presence in Marcella's life. In her, Marcella found a lifelong friend who cared not only for her on a daily basis, but, over the course of almost fifty years, took care of her son, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren. For that, Marcella and her family are eternally grateful. The family and friends will meet at 10:45 am, Saturday, March 9, 2013, at Lynnhurst Cemetery for an 11:00 am graveside service with Dr. Mike Smith officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Sisters of Mercy Mission Fund, c/o Tennova, Attention: Sister Mary Martha, 900 E. Oak Hill Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37917. The family and friends may call at their convenience at Rose Mortuary Broadway Chapel. Online obituary may be viewed and condolences extended at www.rosemortuary.com. Mae West once said, "You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough." Very simply put, Marcella did it right.

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Marcella Holder Wilson

February 4, 1917 - March 5, 2013