Alethea Elaine Young-Lenoir

Alethea Elaine Young Lenoir was born on September 7, 1950, to the union of Frank Anthony Young Sr. and Edna Theresa Porter Young. Alethea established a new address in the arms of our heavenly father on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

Alethea joined St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church at an early age, where she was active in Vacation Christian Education and other youth programs. Her love for music blossomed there as well, and she became a member of the St. Paul Gospelite Choir under the tutelage of her lifelong friend and gifted musician, Ronnie Ward.

Alethea graduated from Everett High School in Maryville, TN, as part of the Class of 1968. During her high school years, she sang in the choir and played saxophone in the school band. Music remained one of her greatest joys throughout her life, and she enjoyed listening to all genres. Alethea was known for her flawless sense of style. As a true fashionista, she was always sharp and prepared for any event.

Alethea relocated to Kansas City, MO, where she continued the legacy of her grandfather, Ish Alonzo Porter, and her uncle, Edward Alonzo Porter, in the profession of mortuary science. She also partnered with her trusted friend, Mrs. Leola Crockett, providing limousine services for funeral homes and social events in the Kansas City area.

Alethea returned to Blount County, TN, to care for her beloved mother, alongside her siblings. She later became an intake specialist at the Blount County Career Center, helping seniors and high school graduates find jobs and trade certifications.

Alethea was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Theresa (Porter) Young; grandparents, Ish and Blanche (Huskins) Porter, Flossy and Jasper Harding; sons, Christopher Lenoir and Ashford Hastings; uncle, Edward Porter; aunt, Althea Nelson; and cousins, Donna Fortune and James Parker.

Alethea leaves to cherish her memory her lovely grandchildren, Akeem Gilmore, Joyce Dawkins, Ju’Toya (Jerrica) Dawkins, DeAndre, and Antonio Gordon. Great-grandchildren Akiriyon, Akari, Amina, and Aniyah Gilmore; Jasai and Jayce Dawkins; Tre’avion Simms; A’mylia and Promise Gordon; Jaida, Amiyah, and Bryin Jr. McGee; and Messiah Gordon; siblings Frank (Marie) Young; Stanley Young Sr.; Peggy (Jeff) Harper; Rebecca (Johnny) Woods; Renee McGowan; sister-in-law Lynette Young; 12 nieces and nephews; 11 great nieces and nephews; 2 godsons; many cousins and family, including the Porters’, Valentines’, Wiggins, and Garners’; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.

Family will receive friends on Saturday June 6, 2026 from 12 noon – 1:00 p.m. with funeral service to follow at Foothills Funeral Home, Maryville. Repass at St. Paul AME Zion Church, 401 W. Broadway, Maryville, TN.