Dorothy L Arning

Dorothy Mauk Arning, age 99, of Knoxville, Tennessee, passed on June 7, 2026. Born January 22, 1927, Dorothy lived a long life marked by steady devotion to family, a strong sense of duty, and a spirited presence that kept those around her on their toes.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Victor E. Arning; her son, Robert Payne, jr.; her parents, Abraham and Nellie Mauk; her brothers, William Mauk, Lewis Mauk, and Charles Mauk; and her sisters, Mavis Thomas, Eleanor Raffoni, Wanda Wilcox, and Helen Shackelford.

She is survived by her daughter, Randi(David) Poole; grandchildren Matthew(Kristi) Poole, Michael(Andrea) Poole, Rebecca (Brian) Guzman, Jordan (Kayla) Payne, and Leslie Payne; and great-grandchildren Cassidy, Kaileigh, and Marissa Poole, and Aiden, Addison, Grayson, and Preston Guzman. She is also survived by her sister Mary Secrist and brother in law Sam Wilcox, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A 1945 Central High School graduate, Dorothy built her working life with reliability and determination. She worked as a teller until her retirement from First American Bank at age 62—only to return part time one day later—continuing until retiring again at age 72, a testament to her work ethic and steadfast commitment.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Dot’s caregiver and companion of three years, Nancy, and to the neighbors—Eddie, Wilma, Frank, Glenda, Hank, Pat, Diana, and Linda—who kept a watchful eye on her. The family also thanks the hospice staff of Amedisys for the compassionate care provided to Dot.

A graveside service will be held at Lynnhurst Cemetery, 2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918, US, on June 11, 2026, at 1:00 pm. A catered reception will follow at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, Reception room, 2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918, on June 11, 2026, at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Fountain City ministry Center.