Judy Ann Maples

August 19, 1953 – February 15, 2026

Judy, 72, went to be with the Lord on February 15, 2026, in Knoxville, Tennessee. She was born on August 19, 1953, in Oliver Springs, Tennessee — and though she lived in different places over the years, her heart was always with her people.

To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was not grandma, but “Muzzy.” Also known as Great-Grand Muzzy, Muzz-Buzz, and the list goes on and on. The name fit her because it is warm, spunky, and entirely her own. When Muzzy showed up, you’d know immediately. Would she be dressed to the nines or as some character no one could quite recognize? With Muzzy, either was always possible.

She loved a full house. She loved a decorated table. She loved a reason to celebrate - and if there wasn’t one, she would create one. Christmas at Muzzy’s was a sight to see. The trees were grand, themed, and full of bling. One year she had eight trees! The presents underneath were truly a work of art, as if they had been placed there for a photograph. She took her time with every detail, not for show, but because she wanted everyone to feel the intentional time she spent ensuring they knew how much she loved them.

Family gatherings were where she was most herself. She was always wearing a chef’s hat and apron, making sure the spread looked as beautiful as it tasted. She loved holding her great-grandbabies, laughing with her grandkids, and even getting down on the floor to play with all the family dogs. She noticed when someone was quiet. She remembered what people liked. She was always thinking of others and caring for their needs before her own.

Her faith was always dear to her, lived out in the way she treated people each day. Her church family held a special place in her heart. She spoke often of how encouraging and kind they were to her.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Sarah Marlow; her father, Beecham Marlow; and her sister, Jean Green.

She leaves behind her daughters, Star (Jimmy) Cooper of Knoxville, Tennessee, and Jill (Steve) Baker of Valparaiso, Indiana; her grandchildren, Travis (Gabby) Cooper of Knoxville, Tennessee; Hayden (Abby) Cooper of Franklin, Wisconsin; Aubrey (Raman) Ghafari Harivand of Cincinnati, Ohio; Mia Baker of Chicago, Illinois; Gabrielle (Jacob) Evans of Valparaiso, Indiana; and Grant Baker of Phoenix, Arizona; and her great-granddaughters, Charlie Evans, Aspen Cooper, Corbie Cooper, and Maycie Evans.

She is also survived by her brother, John Marlow of Belton, Texas; and her sisters, Gloria Davis of Oakdale, Tennessee, and Yvonne (Tommy) Staggs of Harriman, Tennessee.

Muzzy’s life really cannot be summed up in a few lines. We will forever remember Muzzy every time we decorate, prepare a meal, wrap a present, tell a silly joke, and spend time sitting together telling stories.

Visitation and Funeral to Follow: Thursday, February 19 from 5-7pm at Weaver Funeral Home (5815 Western Ave, Knoxville, TN 37921)

Preachers: Johnny Brown and Josh Mack officiating.

Special singers: Darin and Johnny Shannon and Stoney Point choir. Janice Shannon on piano.

Burial: Friday, February 20 at 11am. Graveside at Stoney Point Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery (12424 Couch Mill Rd, Knoxville, TN 37932)

Pallbearers: Travis Cooper, Hayden Cooper, Grant Baker, Raman Ghafari Harivand, Jacob Evans, Gregory Leach, Cooper White. Condolences and memories are welcome at weaverfuneralservices.com.