Paul Elbert Capps

Paul Elbert Capps, Sr, 81, passed into the arms of his Heavenly Father on August 31, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born on January 29, 1943 to the late Rufus and Lucy (Warren) Capps, in Knoxville.

Paul enlisted in the US Army at a young age to fight for our freedom during the Vietnam conflict. He came home and began working at Merita Bakery, eventually retiring. He loved it there so much he even went back to work after retirement, totaling over 60 years of service. During that time, he married the love of his life, Harriet Merriman, and they spent 43 years together. 

He enjoyed fishing, serving at the Son-Light Baptist Church (where he was a member for 28 years) and spending time with his family.

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Harriet; daughters, Belinda Nicholson (husband Tony), Shelly Bates (husband Billy), Kayla Capps (fiancé Bradley O’Mary) and Kyleigh Lackey; son Paul Capps, Jr; brother-in-law Ray Merriman, sister-in-law Jeannie Hurst; six grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, as well as special friend, Joy Ireson.

He is preceded in death by his parents, step-father Cecil Scott, and brothers: Charles, Marshall, and Eddie Capps.

Friends and family may gather at Mynatt Funeral Home, Powell Chapel, on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 from 5-7pm. A funeral service will immediately follow with Pastor Eddie Myers and Rev. Mike Greene officiating.

Paul will be laid to rest at the East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery (2200 E John Sevier Hwy) on Thursday, September 5, at 2pm.

Pallbearers: Shawn Bates, Junior Capps, Bobby Knuckles, Bradley O’Mary, Jimmy Wilson, and Christian Knuckles.

Honorary Pallbearer: Eddie Capps, Jr.

The family wishes to thank Parkwest Hospital and Covenant Hospice for the care they showed to Paul, with special thanks to his cancer doctor, Dr. Jameson Lee.