Mary Ellen Watwood Muffett
Mary Ellen Watwood Muffett, 89, of Franklin, Kentucky, passed away on August 20, 2025. She was born on July 29, 1936, to the late Hugh E. and Irene Holman Watwood.
In 1954, Mary married her high school sweetheart, Carl, who had just joined the United States Air Force. Together they began 62 years filled with adventure, laughter, and devotion. Their life as a military family carried them to many states and several countries during Carl’s military service, creating lasting memories along the way.
Mary’s most cherished role was that of wife, homemaker and mom. She found joy in cooking, crafting, gardening, and doing special things for the people she loved. Light on her feet and quick to laugh, she was often seen with a twinkle of mischief in her eyes.
She and Carl had a love for dancing, traveling with family and friends, serving in their church, volunteering side by side, and playing golf whenever they had the chance. Their story was always one of partnership – working hard, playing hard, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. In her later years, Mary was especially delighted by her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren brought her immeasurable joy.
Mary loved the Lord and her family deeply, and is survived by her siblings Jackie Watwood of Owensboro; Eddie Watwood (Teresa), Roger Watwood (Holly), and Janice Buttrey (Ron) of Franklin, Tennessee; son James E. Muffett (Margot) of Lansing, Michigan; daughter Cheryl Fuqua (Ron), of Chattanooga, Tennessee; grandchildren, Christopher Muffett (Jennifer); Lauren Lawson (Mike); Emily Baumann (Tyler); Bradley Fuqua (Samantha); Jason Muffett (Kenna Ehman); Justin Muffett (Brianna Kocka); Joel Muffett (Rachel Curtis), and nine great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends at Chattanooga Funeral Home, North Chapel, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, on Monday, Aug. 25, from 10-11:30 a.m. The funeral will be held at 11:30 a.m., followed by a graveside service at Chattanooga National Cemetery.
The family also extends heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at The Lantern at Morning Point Assisted Living and Hearth Hospice for the compassionate care shown to Mary. Memorial donations may be made to Hearth Hospice or Bethel Bible Village.
Arrangements are under the care of the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com