Mary Florence Brockett

Mary Rowden Brockett, 71, of Knoxville passed away on January 16, 2024 at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center. She died peacefully with her husband by her side. Mary was born on November 8, 1952 in Tokyo, Japan, where her father was stationed in the Army. She lived in many places where her father was stationed.

She was a member of St. Mark United Methodist Church where she was active in her women’s Circle group and the United Women of Faith. Mary volunteered for many activities including dinners, yard sales, bulletin boards, alter guild, and Vacation Bible School. She was a caring, loving person who went the extra mile in doing special things for her friends and family.

Mary received her bachelor’s degree in 1974 and her masters degree in 1976, both from Tennessee Tech University. In 1974, Mary moved to Spring City, TN to begin a 40-year teaching career. She taught history and social studies in Rhea County for 29 years before moving to Knox County for her final 11 years. After her retirement, she continued to substitute up until last Fall. Mary was an active member of the Tennessee Education Association and held many leadership positions, including President and chief contract negotiator in Rhea County and board member in Knox County. She was President-elect of the Knox County Retired Teachers Association.

Mary and her husband, Ralph, were married on July 20, 2002. They had a special marriage for 21 ½ years where they enjoyed travel, history, music, hockey, and much more. Mary loved serving as a docent for the Mabry-Hazen House. She was also passionate about scrapbooking and crafting. She loved to send handmade cards to family and friends on holidays and special occasions, and often shared handmade items with them. Mary was loved by everyone who knew her.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Garnett and Thelma Rowden, and mother-in-law, Hazel Brockett. She is survived by her loving husband, Ralph; stepdaughter, Megan Brockett; sister-in-law, Patricia (Daniel) VanSlambrouck; special cousins, Patsy Kitchen and Desha Maples, and several other cousins.

A visitation will be held February 3, 2024 at 10 am at Berry Highland Memorial, 5315 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, followed by a memorial service at 12 pm. A graveside service will follow at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Mark United Methodist Church, 7001 S. Northshore Drive or the Mabry-Hazen House, 1711 Dandridge Avenue, Knoxville.