Elva Morrell Grills

Elva Morrell Grills, 99, Kingsport, passed away peacefully Saturday, October 3, 2015, at her home surrounded by her family. Born in Robinette Valley, VA on May 15, 1916, a daughter of the late Tom and Sallie Head Morrell, she had resided in this area most of her life. She was a member of St. Matthew United Methodist Church, serving on the Administrative Council, as a Sunday School teacher and as the MYF director. Elva retired from Eastman Kodak in 1945, following 7 years of service.

Known as Momma Grills, she will be remembered as a loving and devoted Momma,Grandmother,Gigi, sister, and friend and as being involved in many church and community activities.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, J.D. Grills; grandson, Todd Anthony Grills; and sister, Loretta Shipley.

Elva is survived by her 3 children, Guy Thomas Grills and wife, Cheri of San Antonio, TX, Tony Allen Grills and wife, Patti of Kingsport, and David Timothy Grills and wife, Montie Barker Grills of Lenoir City, TN; 8 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Zelma Mitchell of Kingsport; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and special friends, Terry and Patty Ledford.

The family will receive friends on Friday from 5-7:00 pm at St. Matthew United Methodist Church. The funeral service will follow at 7:00 pm with Rev. Ray Amos, Jr., officiating. Special music will be provided by Second Hand Shoes, David and Margaret Lester, Richie Dean and Kevin Odum.

The graveside service will be conducted on Saturday at 10:30 am at Oak Hill Memorial Park. Those attending the committal service may assemble at the funeral home by 10:00 a.m. and then proceed to the cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Gary West, Rick Hudson, Dean Williams, Bruce Williams, David Sheffer, Chris Barker, Worley Head and Terry Moody. Honorary Pallbearers will be Hugh Grills, Eddie Grills, Robert "Butch" Grills, Harold Gillenwater, John Mitchell, Terry Shoemaker and Terry Ledford.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Matthews United Methodist Church Building Fund, 2505 Nathan Street, Kingsport, TN 37664.

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