Former Knoxville city councilwoman Jean Teague dies at 83

Former Knoxville city councilwoman Jean Teague, one of the first women elected to the board who went on to become one of its longest-serving members, died Thursday, family members confirmed. She was 83.

Teague passed away Thursday morning at Parkwest Medical Center after a brief battle with cancer, daughter Kimberly Googe said.

The former councilwoman was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma less than a month ago and underwent emergency surgery Sunday, Googe said.

First elected in 1973, Teague built a legacy of tenacity, grace and strong neighborhood advocacy as the representative of West Knoxville's 2nd District.

"She was Knoxville through and through," Googe said. "She had a passion for people and a passion for this town.

"She was very quick-witted and intelligent. And always feisty."

Former Knoxville mayor Victor Ashe, whose 16-year tenure coincided with much of Teague's time on council, remembered her as a strong community advocate and great friend.

"Her first race saw her defeat popular Dr. Bob Overholt as she made neighborhoods her key issue across the city, which it remained every day for her time on council.

"During our time in public service together we were both allies and opponents as we opposed each for mayor in 1987, but we maintained a keen friendship every day. When I was mayor, she was a strong ally on council for my proposals.

"She was consistent and dependable. She studied issues and had integrity. You wanted her on your team as you knew she would never switch mid-stream. She valued loyalty.

"She was a fighter for her views just as she fought to the end to continue her life.

"Joan and I will miss her dedication and friendship. She was one of a kind."

Teague was term-limited in 2001. She made an unsuccessful bid for an at-large council seat in 2003.

"She was a model of civic engagement," Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero said. "All of Knoxville is in her debt. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones."

Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett praised Teague for her support and friendship.

"I'm saddened by the passing of my longtime family friend, Jean Teague," Burchett said. "I grew up in West Hills, and Jean and her kids were always a part of the Burchett family.

"When my mom had cancer in 1977, Jean always made sure my brother, sister and I were taken care of while my father took mom to Memphis for treatment. I'm going to miss her and am praying for her family."

The popular greenway that runs through West Hills Park is named in Teague's honor.

Survivors include two sons, two daughters and many grandchildren.

Teague was surrounded by family at the time of her passing.

"She loved her family," Googe said. "And she loved Knoxville."

Funeral arrangements were still being finalized Thursday.