Barbara Gaye (Harvey) Mumpower

Barbara Gaye (Harvey) Mumpower, 89, a beacon of warmth and wisdom, passed away on July 14, 2024, near her hometown of Johnson City, Tennessee. Born to T.C. and Marie Harvey on February 14, 1935, Gaye’s life was a tapestry of love, family, baking, bowling, and gardening.

‍Gaye’s journey began in Johnson City, where she grew up with her sibling, Lindola. Her childhood was full with the simple joys of life on a small family farm. After graduating from Lamar High School in 1953, Gaye attended East Tennessee State College and graduated from Weaver Airline School, Kansas City, Missouri, never pursuing a position as a flight attendant. Gaye worked for J E Green Company for many years.

It was in 1962 that Gaye’s heart found its counterpart in Waymon Mumpower. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love in a quaint ceremony at Cherokee Church of Christ in Johnson City, Tennessee. Together, they raised four remarkable children: Todd Mumpower (Tracey), Lance Mumpower, Sherri Blakley (Artie), and Kim Hogston (Adam), who were Gaye’s pride and joy.

The Mumpower family lived for many years in Greeneville, Tennessee, where Gaye worked for Paty Lumber Company. One of her passions at home was a remarkable rose garden. Gaye was also an accomplished baker. Throughout the year, and especially during Christmas, she would bake dozens of baked goods for the community. The family moved back to the family farm in 1979. Gaye spent the remainder of her working years at East Tennessee State University in the Financial Aid department.

With the help of the entire family, Gaye maintained a substantial farm garden. Canning farm goods was a regular activity in the Mumpower household. Her prowess for baked goods also continued, as many in the community could attest. She was also an avid quilter and belonged to the Johnson City Quilters Guild.

The entire family was regularly active in the church at Cherokee Church of Christ. Gaye and Waymon also held education for their children in high regard. All four children graduated from college with advanced degrees.

Preceded in death by her parents and her devoted husband Waymon, Gaye’s memory is honored by her children and beloved grandchildren, Kaleia Godsey and Kinley Hogston. She is also survived by her sister Lindola Chisam, many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A celebration of Gaye’s life will be held at Cherokee Church of Christ, 1421 Cherokee Road, Johnson City, TN, Saturday, July 27th, 2024 from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. with services shared by Pastor Tim Hall immediately following. Her ashes will be interred with her husband in a family ceremony at the VA cemetery in Johnson City, Tennessee.

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