Polly Marie Gambrell-Wilkins, age 80, passed away peacefully Thursday March 6, 2025, at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville.

She was born in Cookeville on July 2, 1944  to her parents the late, Arvil and Noralee Herron Gambrell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Wilkins; sons, Frankie Wilkins and Eugene Wilkins; grandsons, BJ (Bryan Jesse) and Steven Lack; two great-grandchildren Jordan and Kaydence Goines; and her siblings.

Ms. Polly was a member of Taylor's Providence Freewill Baptist Church. After retiring from Redcap Industries in 2002, "Granny" Polly devoted her life to being the backbone of her loving family. She was always there to lend an ear or a helping hand to those who knew and loved her. She was always willing to stop what she was doing and pray for those in need. As a pillar of the community, she was there to ensure that she showed families support in their hours of need; always willing to cook a meal or deliver a dish during times of bereavement or times of celebration. Polly was also known for her famous banana pudding! She gathered her strength to raise her children even when times were tough. Going through the obstacles that gave her strength allowed her to share that strength to help raise and care for other children as well as her grandchildren. Her most famous sayings were, "God is in control and take one day at a time."

She is survived by her daughters Luann Wilkins, Lisa (Richard) Lack, and Donna Landers; son, Matthew (Jennifer) WIlkins; grandchildren, Joey (Rachel) Sheets, Brittney (Bruce) Young, Whittney (Randy) Goines, Camdyn and Coltyn Wilkins and several great-grandchildren.

Funeral service was held Wednesday, March 12, 2025,  at DeKalb Funeral Chapel with Bro. Sam Davis officiating. Interment followed in Peeled Chestnut Cemetery.

In addition to flowers, donations may be made to a Charity of your choice in memory of Ms. Polly.

DeKalb Funeral Chapel, Smithville, was in charge of the arrangements.