Helen Louise (Moore) Scruggs

Helen Louise Moore Scruggs, 98, passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 10, at NHC Assisted Living Farragut. She was born November 13, 1927, in Greeneville, TN, to Taylor G. and Manilla Looney Moore. Shortly after her birth, the family moved to Knoxville, where, except for a brief time in Chattanooga as a newlywed, she resided for the remainder of her life.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband of 71 years James Lloyd Scruggs, son James Taylor Scruggs, brother Taylor G. Moore, Jr., mother-in-law Margaret Hodges, brother-in-law Charles Arthur Hodges, sisters-in-law, Peggy Moore, Faye Hodges, and Carolyn Hodges.

Surviving family members include daughter Sheila and husband Bill Fuqua, Knoxville; daughter-in-law Pat Scruggs, Maryville; granddaughters Elizabeth and husband Jonathan Coffield, Maryville; Jennifer and husband Mike Kelly, Oak Ridge; great-grandchildren Mattie Erwin, Dane Kelly, Marley McMurray, Evans Coffield and several nieces and nephews.

Helen valued education greatly. After graduating from Knoxville High School, she attended the University of Tennessee, majoring in Home Economics, before leaving school to marry. She substituted in Knoxville and Knox County Schools and was one of the original group of people invited to train as Title I Assistants. She later became secretary to the Dean of Readmissions at the University of Tennessee and retired from the university as secretary to Dr. Andy Holt, President Emeritus.

Her Christian faith was always her guiding force. She was a faithful, lifelong member of South Knoxville Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir and served in many different roles in Children’s Ministries. When South Knoxville Baptist closed, she transferred her membership to West Hills Baptist, where her daughter and son-in-law are members. Her love for family was unsurpassed, especially her love for her granddaughters and great-grandchildren. They shared many fun adventures together, including beach trips and family get togethers.

Helen was a beautiful woman who enjoyed being with people and having fun. During her years at NHC, she became a surrogate grandmother to the young workers, and they often came to her to share their challenges and ask for advice. She was known for her impeccable taste and manners, a true Southern lady. She passed down the rule of “Pretty is as pretty does” to her daughter, daughter-in-law, granddaughters, and great-granddaughters, and she exemplified this rule with her love, kindness and consideration for others.

The family would like to thank the staff of NHC Assisted Living and Caris Hospice for their love and care.

She requested to be cremated and her ashes buried alongside her husband at Woodlawn Cemetery. There will be a private family graveside service. Berry Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to West Hills Baptist Church, 409 N. Winston Road, Knoxville, TN 37909. Online condolences may be left at www.berryfuneralhome.com for the Scruggs family.