Emlyn J. Cobble

Emlyn Cobble, a remarkable woman whose life was filled with adventure, leadership, and love for her family and community, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2024, surrounded by those closest to her. She was 70.

Born in Greeneville, Tennessee on September 27, 1954, Emlyn was raised on her family’s dairy and tobacco farm in Warrensburg, Tennessee where she developed a strong work ethic that would carry her through an extraordinary life.

An accomplished athlete, Emlyn was a proud graduate of West Greene High School and Lincoln Memorial University, where she played on the inaugural women’s basketball team and competed on the track team.

Emlyn was not only an athlete but also a trailblazer in her professional life. After earning her B.S. in Chemistry from LMU, she moved to Knoxville, Tennessee where she completed the medical technology program at St. Mary’s Hospital. Identified early on as a natural leader, Emlyn held significant roles in laboratory management and hospital administration at both Parkwest and Regional Medical Centers. One of her greatest accomplishments was overseeing the Riverside Tower project at Parkwest, which greatly enhanced the hospital’s footprint.

Her leadership extended beyond the workplace, as she was a dedicated board member of Habitat for Humanity, contributing both her time and skills to the organization. Never one to shy away from hard work, Emlyn was known to pick up a hammer herself to help get the job done.

Emlyn’s love for life went beyond her professional accomplishments. She was a talented cook, with her famous crab cakes and smoked ribs becoming legendary among her family and friends. She had a zest for travel, enjoying countless adventures across the U.S. and Europe, often accompanied by her cherished nephews and a close group of friends known as “The Bilge Rats.” Emlyn’s sense of humor, love for storytelling, and adventurous spirit made her the epitome of the “fun aunt.”

A member of Sinking Springs Lutheran Church, she was also a devoted member of Knoxville’s St. John’s Lutheran Church choir for many years, while also serving in various church council roles.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Billy and Sarah Cobble; and brother-in-law, Johnny Smelcer. Emlyn is survived by her devoted sister, Janet Smelcer, who stood by her side throughout life; and her beloved nephews, Dr. Philip (Christine) Smelcer and Daniel (Brittany) Smelcer.  She is also survived by her great-nephews, Miles, Oliver, and Peyton Johnny (PJ); and her great-niece, Cora. Also surviving is her goddaughter, Kelsey.

Emlyn is also remembered by her “sister-by-another-mother,” Gaye Jolly, a loyal friend for many years, and a host of other friends who have countless hilarious stories to tell for years to come.

In addition to her love for family, friends, and travel, Emlyn had a deep passion for Tennessee sports, particularly the Lady Vols Basketball and Tennessee Volunteers Football. She was also an avid golfer, beach lover, and cherished time spent fishing. She adored her dachshunds, Lizzie and Annie, and will be remembered for her vibrant personality, her love of good food, and her habit of enjoying a hamburger and cold beer — not necessarily in that order.

Funeral service 3 P.M. SUNDAY October 27th at Sinking Springs Lutheran Church, 2690 Sinking Springs Rd, Midway, TN 37809. Visitation will begin at 1 P.M. and will conclude at the start of the funeral ceremony. Emlyn will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Sinking Springs Cemetery, c/o Melinda Pruitt, 190 Lonesome Rd, Midway, TN 37809, honoring Emlyn’s legacy of service and community.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory - FAIRLAWN Chapel - 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333. Funeral ceremonies in TMidway, Tennessee will be arranged by the funeral directors at Doughty-Stevens Funeral Home (Greeneville, TN)