Loretta Miles Painter, age 87, of Knoxville, Tennessee, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
Loretta was born on February 6, 1939, in Oakdale, Tennessee, to Joe and Cora Mae Miles, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Donald Painter, her brother Carlie Miles, and her sister Betty Jo Wright. She is survived by her sister, Gayle Beatty.
Loretta’s greatest joy in life was her family. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Carl and Teresa Miller and Dr. Michael and Tracy Molloy of Knoxville. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Cory and Heather Helton, of Knoxville, Taylor and Whitney Helton, Zachary and Tabitha Helton, all of Oakdale, and Will and Chelsea Molloy of Knoxville.
She was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren: Gracen, Kylie, Tucker, Nova Lee, and Miles Helton all of Oakdale. Jacob Helton of Maryville, and Madilyn Molloy of Knoxville, along with another precious great-grandchild, Liam Molloy expected in May. She was also blessed with one great-great-grandson, Wesley Helton. She had one niece, several nephews and special friends Caroline Diggs and Rodney Harback.
Family gatherings, visits, and time spent with her children and grandchildren were treasures to Loretta. She loved deeply and made sure everyone around her knew they were cared for and prayed for.
Loretta was a member of Trenton Street Baptist Church in Harriman, TN. She faithfully served the children and families of her church and community for 31 years through the daycare ministry. She began as a teacher and later became the director of the daycare, continuing to serve until the remarkable age of 81. Through the years she helped nurture and guide generations of children, always with patience, kindness, and a loving heart.
Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. Loretta loved her church and found great joy in encouraging others in their walk with the Lord. One ministry especially close to her heart was the Prayer Warrior program, where she faithfully sent letters, cards, gifts, and encouragement each month. She believed deeply in the power of prayer and quietly lifted countless people before the Lord.
Those who knew Loretta will remember her gentle spirit, her kindness, and her servant’s heart.
Her life was a quiet testimony of faithfulness, kindness, and love for the Lord, her church, and her family.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, in Crab Orchard Cemetery, Rev. Edsel West Officiating. Kyker Funeral Home of Harriman is serving the Painter Family.
In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Trenton Street Baptist Church, 519 Trenton Street, Harriman, TN 37748