Stella DeBaby

Stella DeBaby passed peacefully in her sleep Thursday evening. Preceded in death by husband Jim DeBaby, parents George and Angela Cankos, sister and brother-in-law Mary and Michael Vardakis. She is survived by sons and daughters-in-law George and Dawn of Maryville, Charles and Carolyn of Oklahoma City, and Christopher of Palm Beach, sister-in-law Jean, grandchildren Michelle and Michael Barone, Cristy and David Blanding, Charlie DeBaby, Greg DeBaby, Jamey and Matt Hearon, Evelyn and Zac Housel, Melissa and Steve Basinger, and Cody DeBaby as well as 9 great grandchildren and her many nieces and nephews. Stella was married to the love of her life Jim for 70 years. She spent her life not only working but most importantly raising her family. Stella taught her family many things, but especially the love of Greek cooking, living, and laughter. Anyone who knew her couldn’t help but laugh with her and love her. Stella was an active member of the Greek Orthodox Church communities serving as President of the Daughters of Penelope. In 1986, she and Jim retired to Blue Ridge, Georgia and in 2010 moved to Maryville to be closer to family. Although she will be greatly missed, we are comforted knowing the fact that she is back with the love of her life Jimmy. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer’s Tennessee or the Boys and Girls Club of Blount County. Family will receive friends on Tuesday, February 2, 2016 from 5:00 – 6:30 with a Greek Orthodox Prayer Service at 6:30 at Smith Funeral & Cremation Service. A private burial will be at the Tennessee Veterans Cemetery. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Stella DeBaby please visit our Sympathy Store.