Johnnie Lou Mathis Burkey age 80 of Knoxville passed away Tuesday September 14, 2021 at U.T. Medical Center. She is a member of Fountain City United Methodist Church and a former member of Washington Pike United Methodist Church and Bookwalter EUB. She was a member of Christian Homebuilders Sunday School Class. She was the organist at Bookwalter from age 14 until age 25. She taught French in Knox County schools for over 30 years. She graduated from Central High School in 1959. Graduated from U.T. with both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, and she studied French abroad in Paris, France. Preceded in death by parents John D. and Mattie Lou Ketchum Mathis. Survived by husband of 55 years David Burkey and son and daughter-in-law Michael and Peggy Burkey all of Knoxville. Sister; Charlsie Coker of Louisiana, nieces, nephews, and family Family and friends will meet at 10:45 a.m. Friday September 17th at Greenwood Cemetery for an 11:00 a.m. graveside service and internment. Reverend Don Hanshew and Rev. Jim Bailes officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Fountain City United Methodist Church, 212 Hotel Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37918. Serving the family, Stevens Mortuary, Oglewood Avenue at North Broadway. Mrs. Burkey’s guestbook is available at www.stevensmortuaryinc.com.