Marie Kreis Guinn

Marie Meek Guinn, aged 92, of Knoxville, TN, passed away peacefully on February 18th in her home surrounded by her family. A bigger-than-life Knoxvillian whose “blood ran Tennessee orange”, Marie was born on May 3rd, 1931, the eldest of Cecil and Louise Meek, and was a vibrant and generous spirit from the very beginning. She was preceded in death by her brothers Cecil D. Meek Jr. (Shirley), Truan Meek, and Hazen Meek, and she is survived by her brother Gary Meek (Ann). Marie's dedication to her family was unparalleled. She raised four incredible children and welcomed her extended family and friends into her home with open arms. Marie leaves behind the love of her life, Colonel William Guinn Jr., with whom she shared countless cherished memories and adventures. She was preceded in death by her son Steven Harmon Kreis. Her giving spirit and boundless love will forever live on in her children Marty Hines (Bob), Marie Mirts, and Hazen Kreis III (Cindy), as well as her stepsons Bill Guinn III (Becky) and John Guinn (Laurie). She was known as “Meme” to her grandchildren Steve Hines (Allison), Amy Hines, Hazen Mirts (Brettany), Whitney Mirts King (John Mark), Hazen Kreis IV (Erin), Steven “Gee” Kreis (Dani), and Hailey Kreis Ellsworth (Madison), Victoria Guinn (Jessie Davidson), and Mac Guinn (Taylor) each carrying forward the love and generosity she poured into them. In the laughter of her great-grandchildren, Sydney Stahl-Mirts, Hazen Mirts II, Caroline Mirts, Jake King, Ramona Belle King, Bea Kreis, and Hazen Kreis V her vibrant spirit still fills the room. She will be forever cherished by her nephews David Meek (Debbie), Danny Meek (Michele), and their families, whom she embraced as her own. In addition to her immediate family, Marie held a special place in her heart for her extended family, including precious relationships with her nephews, nieces, and cousins. She was a proud member of the Central High School Class of 1949. Her high school days were marked by being a cheerleader, the 1946 Homecoming Queen, and Sweetheart of the Order of the DeMolay. Throughout her life, Marie epitomized strength, grace, and compassion. She was deeply involved in her community and was an active member of West Hills Baptist Church and the Akima Club, as well as taking on leadership roles serving as President of the Knoxville Jaycettes and the Tennessee Woman's Missionary Union (WMU). In addition to her commitments to family and community, Marie pursued her passions with gusto. She was a fervent supporter of University of Tennessee Volunteers athletics, a talented cook known for hosting memorable gatherings, Her passion for art and entertaining led to entrepreneurial adventures as owner of both a Bed and Breakfast and an Art Gallery. She and Bill also dedicated their time for many years to Meals on Wheels, embodying her belief in serving others with kindness and generosity. Marie's adventurous spirit led her to explore the world, from the Isle of Man and Branson, Missouri to Jensen Beach, Florida, as well as countless fly fishing expeditions to some of the most breathtaking landscapes across the United States. She was always either taking friends or making friends everywhere she adventured. A celebration of Marie's life, including a receiving of friends, will be held at 1:30pm, followed by a service at 2:30pm on Sunday, February 25th at Rose Mortuary (1421 N. Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37917). A graveside service will be held at 12:30pm on Monday, February 26th at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery (2200 E Governor John Sevier Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920). In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or Interfaith Health Clinic, all community causes that were near and dear to Marie's heart. Though Marie may have left us, her playful spirit lives on. Let's celebrate her life by continuing to spread generosity and joy, keeping her vibrant energy alive in everything we do. In her sweet but loud voice we can hear her yell: GO VOLS! Online condolences maybe extended at www.rosefuneraltn.com

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Marie Kreis Guinn

February 18, 2024