Julie Ann (Rhea) Karnes

Julie Ann (Rhea) Karnes, 53, leaves a legacy of love, loyalty, and steadfast faith. Her love is exemplified in her 31-year marriage to Mike whom she loved deeply and her unparalleled devotion to her family. Julie gave more to others than she ever took for herself from a heart the size of the sun. Her volunteer ministry spanned decades between her time with Hope Resource Center and Children’s Ministry at the Faith Promise Maryville campus. An incredible dental hygienist who served the Knox and Blount County communities for 30 years, Julie loved her patients, coworkers and commitment to excellence in her work. Julie loved all God's creatures great, small, and furry. She also loved the beauty of this earth and was an avid recycler. Without a doubt, her spiritual gifting shone through her generous nature, her thoughtfulness and unwavering compassion for all who were blessed to know her. Julie is survived by her husband, Michael Karnes; parents, Carolyn Lane & Michael Rhea; uncles and aunts, Wayne Lockett, Nancy Rhea, Richard and Sheila Rhea, Jean and Charlie White; siblings, Mark & Teresa Merritt, David & Tina Rhea, Rick & Carolyn Lane, David Lane, Chris & Jane Lippert-Lane, Roger Lane, and Tim & Amanda Lane. Julie was blessed with many nieces and nephew, Les & Jaqui Trotman and daughters Eva & Hannah, Craig & Elizabeth Koehler & son Levi, Martin & Stephanie Brown and children Edward, Emma, Evelyn Ann, & Elliot; step-nieces, Jeannie & Richard Marino, Vicky Lane, Shannon & Jonathan Williams, Hannah & Brandon Worden, and Rachel Lippert-Lane; Life-long best friends, Whitney Schoenfield and Lynne & Phil Bevins held special places in Julie’s heart as did many beloved cousins. The family held a private service focusing on Julie’s abiding faith in Jesus Christ. It’s this blessed assurance that comforts each of us, knowing we will spend eternity in Heaven with her. In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial donation to the Blount County Animal Shelter. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Julie Ann (Rhea) Karnes please visit our Sympathy Store.