Ina Ruth McCarter

Ina Ruth McCarter, 82, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on June 12, 2026. Born in the beautiful hills of Sevier County, Ruth was the beloved daughter of the late Clyde and Willie Whaley, people who instilled in her a faith and love for others that would define every chapter of her life.

Ruth was a woman whose heart was rooted in her church and her family. For many devoted years, she was a faithful servant at Grace Baptist Church of Seymour, giving of herself freely and joyfully in whatever capacity she was needed. Whether she was leading, serving, or simply showing up, Ruth was there, and her presence made a difference.

Nothing, however, filled her heart quite like her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Each one held a special and irreplaceable place in her life and heart, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Ruth was preceded in death by her loving husband of 56 faithful years, Thomas W. McCarter; parents, Clyde and Willie Whaley; daughter, Rhonda Sue Buchanan; granddaughter, Rachel Marie Buchanan; sister, Ruby Romines; brothers, David and Dwight Whaley.

She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, carried forward by her daughter, Virginia Dianne (Don) Reed; grandchildren, Melissa (Dustin) Jordan, Scott (Samantha) Reed, and Jonathan (Brandy) Buchanan; great-grandchildren, Lyla and Henry Jordan, Emmalee and William Reed, and Noah, Zoey, and Chloe Buchanan, along with a cherished host of extended family and dear friends.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt and sincere gratitude to the entire staff at Freedom Senior Living and to Cassie Russell for the compassionate care they provided to Ruth over the years. Your kindness meant more than words can say.

Family and friends will gather to honor the life and legacy of Ruth at Berry Highland South Funeral Home, 9010 E. Simpson Rd., Knoxville, TN 37920, on Friday, June 19th 2026, with a visitation from 12:00pm to 2:00pm, with a funeral service to follow at 2:00pm, a committal service will follow at Berry Highland South Cemetery, services to be officiated by Butch Stovall and Larry Gilmore. Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with the family at www.berryhighlandsouth.com.