Beloved Community Matriarch Margie E. Lewis Passes at 93

Margie E. (Collins) Lewis, a cherished member of her community, passed away on January 2, 2026, at the age of 93. Surrounded by her loving family, she departed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and culinary talent.

Born on October 15, 1932, Margie grew up in the Blue Springs community of Carter County, Tennessee. She graduated from Unaka High School in 1951, marking the beginning of a life dedicated to her family and career. Over the years, Margie worked at various local establishments, including Kress, Anderson Grocery, Wright’s Grocery, and Giant Supermarket. Her final role was as deli and bakery manager at Winn-Dixie, where her passion for cooking shone brightly.

Known for her exceptional baking skills, Margie once showcased her talent by entering an apple stack cake in the Gray Fair, earning a winning ribbon. This achievement reflected her love for cooking and sharing her creations with family and friends.

Margie shared 42 years of marriage with her husband, Clyde “C.H.” Lewis, until his passing. Together, they enjoyed long drives through the mountains and dining out. Following his death, Margie moved in with her daughter, Barbara Shaw, who continues to honor her mother’s memory.

Family and Legacy

Margie was preceded in death by her parents, Spurgeon Collins and Bessie Pierce Collins, as well as by her husband and three brothers: Floyd, Dewey, and Jack Collins. She also mourned the loss of two sisters, Margaret Ann Deloach and Virginia “Jenny” Collins.

She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Shaw, and her husband, Roger; her grandson, Jason Shaw, and his wife, Melissa; her great-granddaughter, Gracie Shaw, and her fiancé, Colby Garland; and her sister, Wilma Nave. Margie also leaves behind a brother-in-law, Luther Deloach, a sister-in-law, Glenda Collins, special friends Ruby Hatley, Carol Myers, and Dianna O’Dell, along with several nieces, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

A service to celebrate Margie’s life will be held at 6 p.m. on January 6, 2026, in the Chapel of Peace at Tetrick Funeral Home in Elizabethton. The family will welcome friends from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. prior to the service. Dr. James Richardson will officiate the ceremony.

Following the memorial, a committal and entombment service will take place at 11 a.m. on January 7, 2026, in the Mausoleum of Peace at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Attendees are requested to arrive by 10:45 a.m. for the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Stoney Creek Volunteer Fire Department at 126 Ranger Drive, Elizabethton, TN 37643, honoring Margie’s commitment to her community.

Margie E. Lewis will be remembered not only for her culinary skills but also for the love and warmth she brought to all who knew her. Her spirit will live on through her family and friends, and her contributions to the community will not be forgotten.