Jo Ella Minchey

Jo Ella Jenkins Minchey left this world for her Heavenly Home on February 9, 2026, at the remarkable age of ninety-six years, eight months, and twenty-one days.

She was born in the Long Creek community of Macon County, Tennessee, to the late Lee Vester and Oda Dee Howser Jenkins. Jo Ella was the last surviving child of the four born to this union – Claude, Johnnie, and Ruth.

On June 30, 1956, Jo Ella married her sweetheart, Clanton Clay Minchey. Their nearly twenty-four years together were filled with hard work and partnership, owning and operating both a furniture store and a fabric store. When Clanton passed in May of 1980, a part of her heart went with him, but Jo carried his memory with strength and grace for the rest of her days.

After retiring, Jo Ella found great joy and purpose in caring for children. She formed a deep and loving bond with her grandboys and with the other little ones she babysat over the years. Time spent with them brought her happiness that filled her days and warmed her heart.

Jo Ella was of the Missionary Baptist belief, and her faith was steady and secure. She carried a sweet peace in her soul and a boundless love in her heart. She never met a stranger and truly enjoyed talking with people, visiting, and spending time with her family. Gentle, kind, and steady in spirit, Jo Ella was dearly loved by all who knew her. Though we will miss her every single day, we are grateful for the long, beautiful life she lived and for the love she shared so freely. Her legacy lives on in our hearts. Always.

Jo Ella Jenkins Minchey is survived by; Daughter, Sharma Minchey; Sons, David Minchey and wife, Tricia, and Jackie Minchey; and Grandchildren, Matthew Minchey and wife, Jessica, and Ryan Minchey. There was a private family memorial service with Brother Evan White officiating. A future inurnment will take place at Macon County Memorial Gardens.

Alexander Funeral Home, Directors, in charge of arrangements.