Lillian Loretta Tate Shaw

Lillian Loretta Beaty Tate Shaw, age 85, of Maryville, Tennessee, went home to be with the Lord on September 8, 2025. She was born to Robert (Bob) & Lola Colvin Beaty, on November 1, 1939, in her family home in the beautiful mountains of Tellico Plains, TN.

Loretta was preceded in death by her first husband, Rev. Wayne Tate in 1995; second husband, Eugene Shaw in 2005, brother and sister-in-law, Creed and Dorthy Arden Beaty; sister, Elizabeth Watson; and sister-in-law and spouse, Jeanette and Jim McCracken; brother-in-law, Charlie Walker.

At age seventeen, Loretta began her career as a master seamstress at Carolyn Chenille, a skill she carried with pride and care throughout her life. She was known for her remarkable ability to create nearly anything from delicate lacework, men’s clothing, boots, and karate uniforms. She even hand-sewed her daughter’s lace wedding gown and, in a flurry of last-minute dedication, sewed her own mother-of-the-bride dress the night before her daughter’s wedding. Alongside Rev. Wayne, she embraced every church family they were called to serve, from Tellico Plains to Cookeville and beyond. Her faith was at the center of her life, and she found joy in prayer circles, fellowship, and serving her community. Loretta cherished her church family of New Providence Baptist Church. She was a devoted member of the Eastern Star, where she served each position, including Worthy Matron, with honor and grace. Loretta had a deep love for God’s creations whether tending to her garden, sitting peacefully on her porch, or sharing quiet moments outdoors. Her life was a testimony of faith, service, and love for her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her beloved sister, June Walker; children, Yvonne Bryant and Wesley Tate; grandchildren, Jeffery & Laine Bryant, Phillip and Abby Bryant, Tiffany Hernandez, Ean, Meado, and Mason Tate; eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews who will all cherish her memory.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, September 11, 2025 at Myers Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel with Dr. Gerald Atkins officiating. Family and friends will assemble at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 12, 2025 and proceed to New Providence Cemetery for the 11:00 a.m., committal service with Rev. Gerald Lynn officiating. Jeffrey Bryant, Phillip Bryant, Alex Hernandez, Ean Tate, Mason Tate, and Nathan Lott will serve as pallbearers. Myers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.