Patricia Munz

Patricia Merriann Green Munz, known to friends and family as Ann, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, at the age of 90, following a lengthy illness. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, educator, and advocate whose life was defined by compassion, service, and tireless dedication to others.

Born on November 27, 1934, in Marion, Indiana, Ann spent her early years in Marion and Anderson before her family relocated to Texas. A graduate of Austin College in Sherman, Texas, she began her career in education at the School of the Ozarks in Arkansas and later taught English to students in grades 7–12 in Houston, Texas. During this time, she also developed curriculum designed to support gifted, disadvantaged, and learning-disabled students—work that reflected her lifelong passion for inclusive education.

In 1969, Ann and her family settled in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where she devoted herself to raising her three children. She was a fierce and loving advocate, particularly for her son Lee Jr., who had significant special needs. Her commitment to ensuring that children with disabilities received the resources they deserved led her to pursue a Master's degree in Special Education. From there, her advocacy grew to a national scale—serving on local, state, and federal boards, including in a leadership role at the White House Conference on Services for the Disabled.

Ann’s heart for service extended into every aspect of her professional life. As Executive Director of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Knoxville, she initiated a groundbreaking partnership with the Kroger Company for the 1982 World’s Fair, offering mentorship and job experience to older youth in the program. The innovative project provided workforce development skills and generated funds for the organization through a trust established from concession sales. Later, she served as Director of Grant Development at both Roane State Community College and Pellissippi State Technical Community College, securing millions in federal funding from agencies including the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Her efforts provided critical resources that expanded opportunities for students and communities alike. Ann was also deeply committed to her faith and her community.

A devoted member of First United Methodist Church in Oak Ridge, she was involved in numerous ministries and initiatives. In her later years, she launched the XYZ Luncheon, a monthly gathering for seniors that continues to this day. She was also a founding board member of the Free Medical Clinic of Oak Ridge and served with dedication on the Girls Inc. auxiliary board, Monarch.

Ann was preceded in death by her beloved son, Lee Munz, Jr. She is survived by her daughters, Julie Munz Baumgardner (Jay) and Diane Munz Scarbrough (Roy); her granddaughter, Ashley Baumgardner Bushey (Keith); her brother, Albert Green; her sister, Elaine Torkelson; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. A reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Ann’s legacy by supporting organizations that were dear to her heart: First United Methodist Church (XYZ Luncheon), The Free Medical Clinic of Oak Ridge or Girls Inc. of Oak Ridge The family extends heartfelt thanks to Shaleia, Nancy, and the dedicated caregivers at The Waters for their kindness, compassion, and care for their mom.