Phyllis Ray Slack

Phyllis Ray Harkins Slack, 55, went to be with Jesus on April 26, 2015 in her home after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Knoxville, TN on August 31, 1959. Her faith was evident as she walked each day of her journey relying on the strength and provision of her Lord - trusting in His plan. Phyllis is remembered for the love and joy she found in her marriage and family. She was honored to be a grandmother. She took extra delight in her children and her nieces and nephews. She stayed involved in their lives and encouraged the best in them. She was known for her hospitality and her constant caring for the needs of others. She is preceded in death by her father, Lawrence William Harkins; mother, Christine Faye Wilson Smith; step-father, Albert W. Smith; granddaughter, Lylie Tatum Budd; father and mother-in-law, Thomas Joseph Slack, Sr. and Dorothy Foster Slack. Phyllis is survived by husband of 32 years Gregory Edward Slack; son and wife Gregory Edward Slack (Jaclyn); daughter and husband Cynthia Nicole Slack (Garnet); brothers and wives Bill Smith (Vickie); Ben Harkins (Julie); Jerry Smith (Paige); sisters and husbands Sharon Scott (Tom); Gay Bradley (Duane); Evie Manard (Tom); Robin Nichols (Tim); brothers-in-laws and wives Tom Slack; Bob Slack (Mary); Steve Slack (Paula); step-mother-in-law Sylvia Carr Slack and many nieces, nephews, and friends who loved her. In the real estate market, Phyllis was sought after for her ease with people and the ability to work with friendliness and professionalism. She served as a valuable asset to several Title companies throughout her career. Cindy, her daughter, summed up her mother in this way: “No language can express the power, and beauty, and heroism, and majesty of a mother’s love. It shrinks not where man cowers, and grows stronger where man faints, and over wastes of worldly fortunes sends the radiance of its quenchless fidelity like a star. Love you always Mom!!!”Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Proverbs 31:30. The family will receive friends on Thursday April 30, from 1-2:30 at Berry Highland Memorial Funeral Home, with the funeral service to follow at 2:30, Rev. Steve Johnson officiating. The interment will be private. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Ronald McDonald House, 1705 Clinch Ave., Knoxville, TN 37916.