Traci Frye Russ

Traci Frye Russ, born November 10, 1961, in Knoxville, Tennessee, passed away on April 24, 2026. She leaves behind a family and community who will deeply miss her presence and the light she brought into every room. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing she is now at peace, resting in the presence of our Savior.

Traci was the heart of her family. She was a loving and devoted mother to her four children—Derek McHaffie, Courtney Curtis, Sydney Meyer, and Bayli Bricker—each of whom carries forward her strength, warmth, and unwavering support. Nothing brought her more joy than her ten beloved grandchildren: Ryann, Bo, and Mary Ellis McHaffie; Calli, Bryce, and Macy Curtis; Scottie and Wells Meyer; and Hendrix and Ruso Bricker. She absolutely adored them, cherishing every moment and pouring into their lives with a love that knew no bounds.

Traci had a deep love for people and a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome, valued, and cared for. She was incredibly lively—always laughing, always full of energy—and truly the life of the party. Her joy was contagious, her presence magnetic, and her laughter will echo in the hearts of those who knew her.

She found beauty in life’s simple blessings—music playing in the background, sunshine on her face, and time spent tending to her flowers and plants. Her green thumb was a reflection of her nurturing spirit, always growing and cultivating life wherever she went.

Professionally, Traci was a dedicated CPA who spent 30 years committed to her work as an accountant. She was known for her reliability, strong work ethic, and the familiar phrase “month end close,” which became part of the rhythm of her life—and a phrase that will always bring a smile to those who knew her.

Her faith in Christ was a steady foundation throughout her life. It shaped the way she loved others—with grace, compassion, and generosity—and carried her through both joyful seasons and difficult ones. Even in hardship, she demonstrated strength and dignity, trusting in God’s plan and holding tightly to her faith.

Above all, Traci will be remembered for her enormous heart. She gave freely, loved deeply, and lived with joy and purpose. Her legacy is one of compassion, laughter, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family.

She is survived by her four children, her cherished grandchildren, her loving parents, Derrell Frye and Shirley Smelcher, her devoted brother, Todd Frye, and many extended family members and friends who will carry her memory forward with love.

Though she is no longer with us, her light lives on in the lives she touched. We take comfort in the promise that we will see her again. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Family will receive friends Saturday, May 2nd from 12-2pm at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, 2300 W. Adair Dr., Knoxville, TN 37918 with Celebration of Life service at 2pm. A graveside service will immediately follow at Lynnhurst Cemetery.