Rebecca Ferrell Staab

Rebecca Ferrell Staab, of Melbourne, Florida, died peacefully on June 10, 2025. Born November 21, 1940, in Charleston, W. Va., Becky graduated from Sissonville High School (where she was voted “Best Looking”) and attended West Virginia University and the University of Tennessee. She was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. Becky was second runner-up to Miss West Virginia.

She met and married her beloved Raymond Staab, and in 1965 they moved to Knoxville, Tennessee. Besides raising her two children, Becky was a Girl Scout leader, Zoo Docent, and active member and leader in Women’s Aglow Fellowship. Known for being a brilliant cook, Becky entertained friends and family regularly. Her door was always open and the kitchen was stocked with the delicious food she loved preparing.

Widowed in 2011, Becky moved to their beachfront condo in Melbourne, Florida. She thrived in the sunshine and salt air. She met and married the second love of her life, Herbert Jones. His children, Greg, Patti, and Sarah embraced Becky, and she loved their entire family dearly. She and Herb just celebrated their 12th wedding anniversary.

Becky was preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Evelyn Ferrell, and her brother, Michael Ferrell. Also, her husband, Raymond Staab.

Surviving Becky is her husband, Herbert Jones, and his children: Patti Werle (Scott), Sarah Nichols (Ed), Greg Jones (Kristine), and their children. Becky leaves her son, Steve Staab (Vickie), and daughter Stephanie Tatum (Bob), both of Knoxville. She leaves three grandchildren: Drew Ensor (Amanda), Becca Criswell (Brandon), and Holly Staab. In addition, she leaves four step-grandchildren: Derek Abner, Brittney Abner, Jeff Tatum, and Jennifer Tatum. Also surviving her are great-grandchildren Reese, Finley, and James Criswell, along with many step-great-grandchildren.

Becky is also survived by her brother-in-law Tommy Treadwell of Knoxville, and her sister-in-law JoAnn Pickering of Irmo, S.C. She was also blessed with many loving nieces and nephews.

Becky had an adventurous spirit, and a deep curiosity about the world, finding joy in travel and art. She was a woman of deep faith, who loved Jesus with her whole heart. Her laughter was infectious and her humor—equal parts clever and mischievous—made people feel instantly at ease. She could find joy in the chaos, and grace in the absurd. Even in times of pain or challenge, she never lost her ability to crack a joke or lift someone else’s spirits.

We will gather to celebrate her life and receive friends at the Tatum home on June 28th, from 5–7 p.m. The address is 1228 Hearthstone Ln., 37923. There will be a private family burial preceding.

In honor of her generous spirit and her gift for bringing joy to others, donations may be made to the Salvation Army.