Elizabeth Maxine Okoye, aged 83, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, passed away on Tuesday, July 6, 2021.  Elizabeth was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Ethel Garland Sentell and her son, Brian Buckley.  She was survived by her daughters, Marcie Weaver of California, Tamra Buckley of Maryville, Denise Beck of Indiana, and Sheila Bedwell of Oregon; 14 grandchildren, including special granddaughters, Chelsea Womack and Tia Weaver of California, special grandson, Caleb Buckley of Maryville; special greatgrandchildren, Aiden and Ava Santos of California; numerous aunts and uncles including Sylvia and Darrell Galde, Fred and Judy Garland, Wiley Garland and JC Garland.

Elizabeth was a fiercely independent woman who loved basketball but her passion was her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  She was loved by so many and will be missed.  Her family spread throughout the United States from Indiana to California.  The largest gathering here in Maryville.  The family would like to offer a special thanks to all the doctors, nurses, and therapists of Blount Memorial Hospital that helped in her care and were always so tender and caring towards her, it was noticed and appreciated, Thank you.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.