Evelyn Ann Spangler, 87, passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. She had been living at The Groves in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where the family said she received kind and expert care along with love and support from the memory care staff.
Mrs. Spangler and her husband, John Willard Spangler, raised six children. Son Bruce Spangler is a minister who recently retired as CEO of the Volunteer Ministry Center in Knoxville. Son Tom Spangler is sheriff of Knox County. Other children are Patricia Ann “Patti” Spangler, Robert Alan “Bobby” Spangler, Susan Michelle Carver and Kristie Ray Spangler, along with their spouses and families. The full obituary is here.
Evelyn lived her early years in Sevier County but was raised in East Knox County, where she attended Carter High School. Her favorite teacher was “Miss Rusk,” whose brother Dean Rusk was U.S. Secretary of State under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson.
She spent over 20 years as a military spouse before returning to Knox County. She is remembered as a nurturing host, often offering “Little Debbie” cakes to visitors.
The family will receive friends 4-7 p.m. on Monday, October 2, 2023, at Clear Springs Baptist Church in Gibbs, followed by the funeral service at 7 with the Rev. Bruce Spangler officiating. Memorials may be made to Keystone Adult Day Program in Oak Ridge.