Evelyn McFalls Ricketts

Evelyn McFalls Ricketts, age 94, of Knoxville, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025. A lifelong resident of East Tennessee, she was a devoted Christian and longtime member of Piney Grove Baptist Church, where she served as church secretary for many years. Evelyn’s home and heart were always open. Whether you needed a meal, a place to stay, or just someone to sit with on the porch and talk about flowers, she had a way of making everyone feel like family. She helped raise generations of grandchildren and great-grandchildren with quiet strength and steady love. Her chocolate pie was legendary, her cross-stitch was stitched with care, and her belief that “everything could be fixed” made her the one everyone turned to. She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, H.G. Ricketts; her parents, Leonard and Edna McFalls; her granddaughter, Ashley Blair Albin; and her son-in-law, Ralph Blair. She is survived by her four children: Debbie Blair, Gary Ricketts, Ronald Ricketts and his wife Joni, and Brian Ricketts and his wife Dana. She also leaves behind sisters Barbara Gwinn and Wilma Belitz; grandchildren Ralph Blair, Brittany Ricketts, Brooke Ventura, Kendyl Ricketts, Kenzie Ricketts, Konner Ricketts, and Justin; a growing number of great-grandchildren; and a few great-great-grandchildren as well. She is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, and friends. Family will receive friends Monday, July 14, 2025, from 5:00PM to 7:00PM with a service to follow at Weaver Funeral Home. Family and friends will meet at Piney Grove Cemetery at 10:45AM Tuesday for an 11:00AM graveside service.