Natalie Leach Haslam

Natalie Leach Haslam passed away peacefully at home Friday, January 16. She was 94 years old. The daughter of Dr. Robert Swepson and Jennie Belle Boyden, Natalie was raised in Sequoyah Hills and was a devoted parishioner of St. John’s Cathedral her entire life. She was a 1952 Liberal Arts graduate of the University of Tennessee where she was named Miss Tennessee 1951-52. She cherished her years at UT and over many years supported its initiatives, most recently the named College of Music. She is survived by her beloved husband, James A. Haslam, her three daughters Jennie McCabe (Rob), Susan Robie (Chip) and Carol Pattison, as well as three step-children Jimmy Haslam (Dee), Ann Haslam Bailey (Steve), and Bill Haslam (Crissy). She also leaves behind six grandchildren: Jennie Alexander McCabe, Katherine McCabe Winship (Blanton), Richard Senter Robie IV (Katie), Eliza Robie Lloyd (Hunter), Peter Mackay Pattison, and Andrew Cole Pattison. She was blessed to meet her seven great-grandchildren. Natalie’s deep love of East Tennessee is exemplified through her leadership of and generous stewardship of a great many cultural and civic organizations. She served on the boards of the Knoxville Symphony Society, East Tennessee Foundation, East Tennessee Historical Society, the Knoxville Garden Club, the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Greater Knoxville, the Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Tennessee Arts Commission, Child and Family Services, Zoo Knoxville, Maryville College, Webb School of School of Knoxville, the Wellness Community, and Junior League of Knoxville. While her accomplishments were many, her unwavering love for her family and dear friends will always be remembered. She was the epitome of elegance, grace, and humility. The family wishes to thank, with our deepest gratitude, Jessica Richardson and Laura Self, for their devotion and love. We also want to recognize the exceptional care provided by Stephaine Pruitt, Carly Deliberto, Emily McLin, Heidi Anderson, and Caitlyn Casey. Funeral service is at St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral on Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 2 p.m. with receiving of friends to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral, the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, or a charity of your choice.

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Natalie Leach Haslam

November 30, 1931 - January 16, 2026