Pauline Jennings

Pauline Tunnell Jennings, 98, of Gallatin, TN, passed away on the morning of February 20^th.

Pauline was born on January 28, 1926 to Cecil and Bessie Tunnell in Springville, Mississippi, alongside her twin sister, Maxine. She married Earl “Buddy” Jennings Jr. in 1949 and a few years later had a daughter, Carolyn. Pauline and Buddy were together for 55 years until Buddy’s passing.

Pauline worked as a Civil Servant for the US military for 29 years across various states and even in Japan before retiring in 1979. Her career would later continue for many years at Smith Travel Research, her daughter’s business in Hendersonville, Tennessee.

Pauline was a passionate crafter of many forms: seamstress, knitter, cook, but above all, quilter. She was an award-winning, renowned quilter and has blessed so many family members and friends with beautiful quilts over the last 40 years. She was truly an expert of the craft.

Pauline lived through the Great Depression and WWII in her early years. She experienced some difficult times and saw the world change many times over. One of her greatest challenges came in 1986, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her courage through the surgery and following chemotherapy was inspirational. Fiercely independent and never one to readily accept help, Pauline’s unique perspective on life and astounding resilience will be greatly missed. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, caretaker, and friend to many more.

Pauline was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Bessie Tunnell; daughter, Carolyn Smith; husband, Earl Jennings Jr.; twin sister, Maxine Buehler; sister, Martha McGavic; brothers Alvin Tunnell, Edward Tunnell, and Hilton Tunnell; and infant brother Adelbert Tunnell.

She will be lovingly remembered by her grandson, Alex Smith, and son-in-law, Randy Smith, as well as many extended family members and friends.

A visitation and graveside service will be held from 1:00 to 3:30 at Hendersonville Funeral Home and Memory Gardens at 353 E Main St., Hendersonville, Tennessee. You may send flowers or give a gift to Quilts for Kids.