Saundra Lee Slagle, of Watauga, Tenn., passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 23, 2019, at home. Saundra was born in Johnson City, Tenn., to the late Luther “Luke” Blankenship and Maxine McCurry Blankenship. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Connie Blankenship Condra, and a brother, Larry Blankenship.
With an uncompromising sense of style, Saundra dressed for life as if every day was a special event. Her quick wit and in-depth understanding of politics kept her ready for any political debate. If you don’t pull for the Cyclones, watch out! She was an avid sports fan. She was funny — always ready with a laugh. Her kind heart made you feel instantly at ease. She had a love of beauty, creating a gorgeous home and flower garden. Cooking was not a hobby, but a daily expression of love and creativity. She lived life with encouragement and inspiration for everyone who knew her. Her patriotism was ever present in her home, life and heart.
Saundra was a successful business woman, starting her career as a law assistant with Herron and Herron. After raising her boys, she worked as a real estate agent and owner/operator of her own boutique, “Somewhere in Time.” She was also the backbone of helping her husband, Pete, build a successful excavating business. In more recent years, she enjoyed loving her amazing grandkids, Owen and Rhett, and watching them learn, grow and become young men.
She was married to the love of her life and friend, Pete, for 53 years. Together they created a beautiful family business and home. As a member of Hunter First Baptist Church, she taught Children’s Church for many years. She was also very involved with Elizabethton Women’s Civic Club. Her hobbies included piano, painting, stain glass, gardening, flowers, sports and cooking.
Those left to continue her legacy include her husband, Pete Slagle, of the home; her sons, Pete Slagle Jr. and wife Crystal and their children, Owen and Rhett Slagle of Watauga, and Stephen Slagle and wife Hannah of Elizabethton; a sister-in-law, Judy Blankenship of Elizabethton; a special nephew, Johnny Blankenship of Elizabethton; and her adopted grandchildren, Clayton Ray of Roanoke, Va., Cassidee Ray and Alex Middleton, both of Johnson City. Many extended family, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law also survive.
An outdoor celebration of life service for Saundra Lee Slagle will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, August 30, in the Pavilion at Central Community Christian Church with Reverend Jamie Ferguson officiating. Music will be provided by Dena Boling. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., prior to the service on Friday, or at the residence at any time. The committal and entombment will follow in the Mausoleum of Peace at Happy Valley Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be Tom Slagle, Buck Slagle, Doug Slagle, Johnny Blankenship, Tony Bowers, Shaun Fonsworth (Peewee) and Clarence Reed. Honorary pallbearers will be Jamie Norwood, Dr. Stephen May, Brad Johnson, Ronnie Simmons, Gordan Ballard, Ronnie Trivette and Sonny Slagle. The family would like to especially thank Dr. Vivian Clark for the love and care given to Saundra. Those who prefer memorials in lieu of flowers may make donations to Shriners Hospital for Children, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Online condolences may be shared with the family on our website, www.tetrickfuneralhome.com.
Saundra and her family are in the care of Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton. Office: (423) 542-2232. Service Information Line: (423) 543-4917.