Novella Jean Harrill

Novella Jean Harrill, 77 of Athens passed away Friday, July 24, 2026 at Legacy Park Health and Rehabilitation Center of Knoxville, TN.

She was born in Richmond, VA and was a long-time resident of McMinn County. She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 48 years, Don Harrill. She was a daughter of the late Paul Hackney, Sr. and Margaret Hackney. She was also preceded in death by her siblings Bob Knisley, Janice Evans, Sue Sharp and Paul Hackney, Jr.

She found joy in caring for others and was able to fulfill this through her job as an RN and volunteering at various clubs and organizations. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Athens and enjoyed serving in WMU.

Survivors include her two daughters and son-in-law, Christy and Tony Martin of Knoxville, and Paula Crossland of Gallatin, one sister Fran Turner of Blue Ridge, GA; grandchildren, Emma Grace and Briley Love, Riley Kate Martin and Morgan Crossland;

Several nieces and nephews

Funeral services will be 1:00 PM Wednesday, July 29, 2026 in the chapel of Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home with Rev. Pete Mullins officiating.

Interment will follow in McMinn Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM-1:00 PM prior to the service at the funeral home. Those unable to attend may send condolences to www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/Novella-Harrill.

Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home in Athens is in charge of the arrangements