Carol Ann Rinehart

Carol was a lifelong devout Catholic and a member of the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. The family will receive friends on March 19, 2026 from 4 pm to 8 pm at Berry Highland West Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass at The Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus on March 20, 2026 will be held at 10 am, with a burial to follow at Berry Highland West Cemetery.

Carol was born in Wilmington, Delaware. She attended the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, earning degrees in Political Science and Accounting. She was employed by Tetra Recycling as an accountant for over 25 years.

While attending UT she met Kent Rinehart, also a UT student. Carol married the love of her life in 1985. She and Kent were married for 41 years. Together, they raised a son, Dr. Kent Rinehart. Carol took great pleasure in watching Kent grow. She was a very proud and loving mother.

Later in life, Carol experienced something greater than bliss with the birth of her three grandchildren; Reese, Graham and Dean. “Nonna” was 100% hands on - running, dancing, swimming with them, creating artwork, or doing whatever else they chose to do. Carol was in it with them. She loved them dearly and, in turn, they loved her right back.

Carol lived every day fully; constantly seeking new adventures and travel. She loved her family and friends endlessly. She was their protector and was a loyal source of strength to those she loved. We love her and miss her.

Carol is survived by her husband Kent; son, Dr. Kent Rinehart; grandchildren, Reese, Graham, and Dean; brother, Michael Rupnik of Smyrna; sister, Sharon Hawkins (Bill) and nephew, Jack Hawkins of Nashville. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mitchell and Patricia Rupnik and her in-laws, Myrt and Edward Hagen.

Carol's kindness, care and LOVE will be missed by many