We are deeply saddened by the loss of our sister, Dorothy Edna Essary-age 74 of Maynardville who passed away Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, surrounded by her sisters and brother. Dorothy lost her hearing when she was four years old and was a graduate of Tennessee School for the Deaf, Class of 1970. She was a caring and loving person who never allowed her disability to keep her from enjoying life’s simple pleasures. She loved spending time with family and friends, helping them celebrate birthdays and holidays. Dorothy made friends where she went, her favorite place was Food City, where she would see everyone. She loved working outdoors with flowers. She was always teaching her nieces and nephews sign language so they could communicate with her.

Preceded in death by her grandparents, Will and Susie Mabe, John Gipson and Grace Essary; parents, John R. Essary and Ida Mae Monroe; brother-in-law, Anthony Anderson.

She is survived by her sisters, Barbara (Ralph) Williams, Joyce Anderson, Bertha Painter all of Maynardville, Marilyn (Daniel) Bell of White Pine; brother, Lonnie Monroe of Maynardville; her beloved dog, Zip. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff at Centennial Medical Center and her Nurse Practitioner, Kristen, who went the extra mile so we could spend time with her before her passing.

The family will receive friends 11 AM to 1 PM Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Cooke-Campbell Mortuary, with graveside service to follow at Jackson Cemetery, New Tazewell Rev. Greg Sharp officiating. Pallbearers: Brad Davis, Gordon Williams, Jackson Brantley, Phillip Montoya, Joshua Wiley, Brent Painter. Honorary pallbearers: Ralph Williams, Darin Williams, Lynn Dixon, Ethan Montoya, Tee Collins, Bryson Boles, Leland Jackson, Chris Anderson. Arrangements by Cooke-Campbell Mortuary, Maynardville.