Betty Jean Presnell

May 9, 1941 – March 26, 2026

Betty Jean Presnell, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed peacefully from this world on March 26, 2026, at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville, Tennessee. She was 84 years old — a life lived fully, faithfully, and with a loving heart that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Born and raised in Knoxville, Betty Jean was a proud graduate of Young High School. She went on to build a meaningful career as a paralegal for the Social Security Office of Hearings and Appeals, where her dedication and compassion made a quiet but lasting difference in the lives of those she served.

Faith was the cornerstone of Betty Jean's life. A lifetime member of Sevier Heights Baptist Church, she cherished her Sunday school family and found deep joy in worship and fellowship. Whether tending to her flowers, picking up a paintbrush, or gathering with family, she brought warmth and grace to everything she touched.

Betty Jean is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Nova Atkins. She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Bob Presnell; her children Karen Hime (Andy), Stephen Presnell (Kelly), and Greg Presnell (Carrie); her grandchildren William Hime (Amanda Hayes), Sarah Hime, Katelyn McCoy (Marshall), Joshua Presnell, Abigail Barber (Jacob), Benjamin Presnell, Samuel Presnell, Eli Presnell, Reagan Dougherty, and Walter Dougherty; her great-grandchildren Maverick McCoy, Eva McCoy, and Ellis Barber; and her sister Sylvia Cook.

She leaves behind a family rich with the love she so generously gave and a community made brighter by the life she led.

Services

A Receiving of Friends and Family will be held at Berry Funeral Home, 3704 Chapman Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920, on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.

A Graveside Service will follow on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Woodlawn Cemetery, 4500 Woodlawn Pike, Knoxville, TN 37920.

The family asks to please consider a donation to the American Heart Association in Betty Jean Presnell's memory. Memorial gifts can be made in her name at www.heart.org

Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with the Presnell family at www.berryfuneralhome.com.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."