Leila Katherine Wear Cantrell, age 98, of Athens, Tennessee, formerly of Maryville, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, 2026.

She was born on March 21, 1928, in Monroe County to the late Monroe and Oda Wear. Leila was a devoted member of Smoky View Baptist Church and lived a life grounded in faith, family, and service to others.

Leila was a graduate of Englewood High School and went on to work as an X-ray technician for 32 years, a career she loved and carried out with dedication and compassion.

She had a special gift for creating with her hands and will be remembered for her beautiful quilts, crochet work, and sewing. She also loved to bake and decorate cakes, sharing her creations with family and friends for many special occasions.

She was very active in the Social Butterflies and cherished the friendships she made through those groups.

Leila was raised on her grandparents’ farm alongside her four loving uncles, an upbringing that helped shape her strong work ethic and caring spirit.

She is survived by her cousins, Ruth Wear Brown, Ronney (Sharon) Stephens, Carol Arnett, and Rita (Dan) Buis, as well as their children and grandchildren. She also leaves behind her specials friends Steve and Susan McKee, Chris Bennett, Walker Johnson, and Maddie Mullins.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Spring Arbor and Hearth Hospice for the kindness, compassion, and care shown to Lelia.

Family and friends will assemble for a graveside service at Grandview Mausoleum Chapel, 12:00pm, Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Prospect Church and Cemetery of McMinn County.