Thelma Jean Mahaffey

Thelma Jean Mahaffey, known affectionately as Jean, passed away on March 21, 2026, in Cleveland, Tennessee, at the age of 79. Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, on January 31, 1947, to Joseph Joel Rutledge and Clara Russell Rutledge, she carried the maiden name Rutledge before marrying her late husband, Jones P. Mahaffey.

Jean's early education was completed at Morton Elementary and Morton High School in Morton, Mississippi. She furthered her studies at East Central Junior College in Mississippi and Northwest Bible College in Minot, North Dakota. Jean started her career in clerical work. After marrying, she served devotedly as a pastor's wife at various Churches of God in North Dakota, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee. She and her husband were also missionaries in Adelaide, Australia.

Described by those who knew her as kind, sweet, compassionate, quiet, strong, resilient, nurturing, loving, creative, and inquisitive, Jean's life was a testament to her enduring spirit and caring nature. Her hobbies included reading, studying, sewing, drawing, traveling, and spending cherished moments with friends and family.

Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jones P. Mahaffey; her parents, Joseph and Clara Rutledge; and her brother, Thomas Rutledge. She is survived by her daughter, Veronica L. Mahaffey (Ormond Beach, FL) and her son, Gary B. Mahaffey (and his husband, Thomas D. Cranmore) (Graysville, TN). She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Jean's life will be celebrated on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at The Ridge Chapel of Companion Funeral Home in Cleveland, TN. Friends & loved ones are welcome to visitation at 10:30AM, followed by a celebration service at 11:30AM. Jean will be laid to rest at 1:30 PM at the National Cemetery in Chattanooga, TN.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Grace Community Church (Cleveland, TN), in the name of Jean Mahaffey. The arrangements for Jean's final farewell are being handled by Companion Funeral & Cremation Service, Cleveland, TN. Jean's memory will be