Mary Perkins Bragg Hillis, 94

She was born Feb. 26, 1913, in Dibrell, later moving to McMinnville where she spent most of her life. She attended David Lipscomb College and Middle Tennessee State College. She was employed in the family nursery business as a young woman and was later employed by the state of Tennessee Department of Employment Security until her retirement. She was a longtime member of Westwood Church of Christ in McMinnville. She moved to Kingsport in 1994. Known as ‘Perkie’ from her youth, she was a devoted mother with varied interests, always supporting her family. She was a wonderful cook, organized housekeeper, effective employee, enthusiastic reader, and music lover. She made it possible for her husband, Wayman, to be active in many community interests by her support and skill at homemaking.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayman E. Hillis; her parents, Thomas Perkins Bragg and Ruby Wilson Bragg; a sister, Georgia Bragg Cordell; a brother, W.W. (Doc) Bragg; and several half-brothers. Surviving are her two daughters and sons-in-law: Ellen and Jim Finney of Kingsport, Susan and Dan Rambo of Memphis; four grandchildren and spouses: John Finney, Anne (and Sustin) Anderson, Richard (and Mary Katherine) Rambo, and Andrew (and Molly) Rambo; five great-grandchildren; and a sister, Bettie Ruth Lemley of Tallahassee, Fla.

The family wishes to express its gratitude to special caregivers Carrie Hogan of McMinnville, Missy Haga, Dorothy Johnson, Geneva McLain, Joan Robinson, Wellmont Hospice, and the staff of Asbury Place at Kingsport.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Mt. View Cemetery. Family and friends will meet at Mt. View Cemetery at 10:45 a.m. The family suggests that memorial donations be made to Westwood Church of Christ, or to Magness Library.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.