BBBTV12 Serving Anderson, Roane, and Morgan Counties
Terry Lynn Dennis, 69, of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, passed away on August 26, 2026. Born on August 11, 1957, in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Terry was a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend whose life was filled with love, laughter, and devotion to her family.
Terry is survived by her parents, Connie and Johnny Purnell of Oak Ridge, Tennessee; her children, Ryan Purnell, Marcus Hicks, and Rachel Purnell; her sister, Penny Lawlor; her brother, Morgan Purnell; her granddaughter, Miranda Gilley; and her grandsons, Ryland Landry and Gabriel Brewer, along with several other beloved grandchildren and many family members and friends who will cherish her memory.
Terry had a passion for music, especially the music of Morgan Wallen, and could always find joy in listening to her favorite songs. She also loved online shopping and never passed up the opportunity to find something special. Terry loved being surrounded by the people she cared about most and always enjoyed a big family gathering filled with conversation, laughter, and love.
She had a special love for baking and took great joy in making baked goods to share with her family and friends. Terry also loved the beach, the warmth of the sun, and the happiness that came from simply enjoying life’s little moments.
Above all else, Terry was full of love and laughter. She had a way of bringing warmth and joy to those around her, and the memories she created with her family will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved her.
A Celebration of Life honoring Terry will be held jointly with her beloved brother, Bruce, who also passed away in July 2026. The two were inseparable throughout their lives, and their family finds comfort in knowing that they would be happy to be celebrated together, just as they shared so much of life side by side.
The Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 12:00 pm at Valley View United Methodist Church, 815 Old Edgemoor Lane, Clinton, Tennessee 37716.
Though Terry will be deeply missed, her love, laughter, and the beautiful memories she created will remain forever in the hearts of her family and friends.
