Evie Rachel Agnew, age 99, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born June 4, 1925, in Bethel Springs, TN, Rachel was the daughter of Evie Mae Black Maxedon and John D. Maxedon. Rachel attended school in Bethel Springs and graduated from Bethel Springs High School in 1944. On December 28, 1952, Rachel was united in marriage to Jack T. Agnew. Together they created a home filled with love and warmth that flourished for 51 years, until Jack preceded her in death in 2003.
Rachel attended Union University and Memphis State University to prepare her for the 37- year career she loved as a teacher at Selmer Elementary School. Most of this career was spent teaching second grade, where she positively impacted the lives of her students. Throughout her life, Rachel enjoyed cooking and sharing her dishes with friends and family as well as piecing and quilting quilts, gardening, sewing, various craft projects and working in the yard. She also enjoyed actively participating in school and related activities of her grandchildren. She was a lifelong member of Buena Vista Church where she enjoyed worshipping, fellowship, and participating in church activities. Her kind and generous nature extended to family, friends, students, and strangers whom she readily welcomed.
Rachel is survived by her daughter, Wanda Perrigo and husband Lew of Bethel Springs, cherished grandchildren Jessica D’Orio and husband Michael, Jennifer Perrigo and fiancée Daniel Ragan, John Agnew, James Agnew and wife Esther, and great-grandchildren Gabby D’Orio, Matteo D’Orio, Gianna D’Orio, Giuliana D’Orio, Marco D’Orio, Maura D’Orio, as well as three nieces and a multitude of extended family members.
In addition to her parents and her husband, Jack, Rachel was preceded in death by her son, David Agnew and daughter-in-law, Nelvia Agnew.
As we celebrate Rachel’s remarkable life, we remember her for her love, her dedication to family and community, the countless lives she touched and the legacy she leaves behind.
