Ellen Anne Sowders

Ellen Anne Judkins Sowders was born on July 3, 1935 to H.G. and Edna Judkins in Maryville, TN.  She passed away March 1, 2024 at Brookdale Assisted Living Center, Maryville, TN.  Anne worked as a legal secretary for Frank Bird and his associates for more than forty years.

 Family was very important to Anne. She was a much loved wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and stepmother. In her later years, she was very involved in the lives of her nephews and niece, and in the lives of her great-nephews and great-niece.

 Anne was an active member of Dotson Memorial Church for many years. She was involved in the Singles ministry, especially enjoying the class’s connection to Tackett Creek, Kentucky, and loved the trips there to distribute Christmas gifts. She also enjoyed the social activities of the class, especially game night.

 Anne was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Robert (Bob) Sowders, her brother William (Bill) Judkins, and her stepson Robert (Bob) Sowders.  She is survived by her sister Pauline (Polly) Tipton, of Louisville, her brother Tom Judkins (Linda) of Tate, GA, stepsons Ted Sowders (Sarah) of Friendsville, Tony Sowders (Patsy) of Lenoir City, stepdaughters Pam Byrd (Jim) of Louisville, and Connie Heiskel (Mike) of Maynardville. Delores Sowders, a step daughter-in-law also survives along with 13 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren. Anne is survived by three nephews, Greg Judkins (Michelle) of Maryville, Jeff Judkins of Maryville, and John Judkins (Stephanie) of Jasper GA.  One niece, Mary Judkins of Ball Ground GA also survives. Four great nephews, Dylan Ball of Ball Ground, GA, Aidan Mullins of Ball Ground GA, Gaston Judkins of Maryville, Foster Judkins of Jasper, GA and one great niece, Gina Judkins of Maryville survive. Family will receive friends from 4:00 until 6:00 PM, Thursday, March 7, 2024 at Smith Trinity Chapel.  Funeral service will be at 6:00 PM, Thursday, March 7, 2024 with Rev. Jim Cummings officiating.  Family and friends will assemble for graveside service and interment at 9:00 AM, Friday, March 8, 2024 at Grandview Pavilion.  Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.