Stella Louise Maddux

Stella Louise Maddux, born on September 13, 1942, in Nashville, Tennessee, departed this world on January 6, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee. She lived a life that radiated warmth and kindness, holding the esteemed role of a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother within her family. Stella’s dedication to her loved ones was a testament to an unwavering spirit, nurturing those around her with love and affection.

A graduate of Donelson High School, Stella devoted herself to a meaningful career, retiring from the Knoxville Rubber and Gasket Co. Her professional journey, while significant, paled in comparison to her devotion to her family. Adored by all who knew her, she effortlessly exemplified the virtues of love and compassion.

Stella’s pride and joy lay in her children and grandchildren, culminating in what she regarded as her greatest achievements. Her legacy is carried on through her husband, Stephen T. Maddux; her beloved daughter, Karen M. Rutledge, and her husband, Jeff; her son, Stephen Maddux, Jr., and his wife, Patty; and her treasured siblings, Leona Lewellen, Richie Smith and her husband, David, Brenda Kannenberg and her husband, Duffy, and brother George R. Painter and his wife, Judy. Additionally, she leaves behind a remarkable lineage of grandchildren: Hailey Evans and her husband, Tanner, Chase Rutledge, Sarah Goode and her husband, Dalton, Stephen Maddux III, and Joby Gaines, along with her great-grandchildren, Wylder Evans and Hazel Evans and son in law Mike Gaines. 

Stella was preceded in death by her beloved parents, George R. Painter and Bonita G. Payne, and her precious daughter, Sharon Renee Gaines.    

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org, in honor of Stella Maddux. 

Stella Louise Maddux will be deeply missed. Though she has departed from this earthly realm, she will remain forever cherished in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Gone but not forgotten, her spirit continues to inspire love and unity within her family, standing as a beacon of kindness and grace.