Gracelyn Rose McMahan

Gracelyn Rose McMahan walked into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, May 4, 2017 at Lebonheur Children's Hospital in Memphis, TN. She was 9 years old. Gracelyn spent her final days surrounded by family and friends. Gracelyn gained her angel wings after courageously battling a lifelong illness peacefully in her mother's arms. She is survived by her loving mother and father, Emily and Billy Thompson; her brother, Bryce, and baby sister, Maddison. She also leaves behind her maternal grandparents, Andrea McMahan (Granny), and Joe McMahan (Popeye); and paternal grandparents, Cindy and Bill Thompson (Mamaw and Papaw). She is also survived by special aunts, Addie McMahan and Kaitlyn Thompson; and special little cousins Ryder Landry and Eastyn Parker. She is also survived by maternal great-grandparents, Kaye Bryant Balch; and Jan and Bill McMahan. She also leaves behind many close great aunts and uncles, cousins, and family friends. She was a student at Newport Grammar School and leaves behind a very special third grade class and many special teachers and friends; and "boyfriend", Jayden Hall. She was preceded in death by maternal great-grandfather, Jerry Balch. Gracelyn was a light in the lives of many. She lived every day to the absolute fullest and always wore a smile, no matter how she physically felt that day. She was a beloved child and student but she taught the world so much more than we taught her. Her life wasn't about the length of time she had here on earth, but the quality. Gracelyn loved to help others and always thought of others before herself, up until the moment of her passing. She wished to be a nurse at East Tennessee Children's Hospital. She loved to sing, dance, and perform. Funeral Services will be held at 7:00 pm, Monday, May 8, 2017 at Newport Grammar School Gymnasium. The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 pm on Monday at Newport Grammar School Gymnasium prior to the funeral services. Special friends and public safety members Justin Vinson and Chad Strange will stand guard at her side as Superman and Batman. Burial will be 11 am Tuesday in Bryant cemetery. Family and friends may sign the guest register online at www.manesfuneralhome.com Arrangements are under the direction of Manes Funeral Home in Newport, TN.

Gracelyn Rose McMahan

June 25, 2007 - May 4, 2017