Mr. Darryl Lay Ortenzi, 74, of Knoxville, TN, formerly of Woodbine, passed away Sunday, March 22, 2026 peacefully at his home. He was born July 18, 1951 in Knox County, the son of the late Charles and Inis Etta Helton Ortenzi.
Darryl’s life was a tapestry of dedication, service and love. After graduating from Knox Central High School, he attended the University of Mississippi, where he studied business for a year. He was later drafted into the United States Army, serving his country with honor for two years in communications while stationed in Germany. Darryl embarked on a long and fulfilling career at South Central Bell for over 23 years before retiring. He later found joy in working at Walmart, where he was a beloved cashier and friend to many. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he nurtured a deep passion for flowers and gardening, finding solace and joy among the blooms. His green thumb was matched only by the warmth of his heart.
On August 31, 1970, he united in marriage with Lois Bruner and to this union two daughters were born.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Etta R. Ortenzi; brother and sister-in-law, Vernon and Sandy Ortenzi and two great grandchildren.
Darryl was loved and cherished by his family, holding a special and unconditional love for each one of them. It was a love that never faltered or ran thin; it was eternal and unyielding. He was always there for his loved ones in times of need and hardship, as well as in celebrations and special occasions. His family was everything to him and he was everything to his family, he was the best father and grandfather in the world. His family will forever feel his absence and the legacy of love and dedication will continue to grow in the hearts of all who knew him.
Survivors include his devoted friend, Tim Sanderson; loving daughters, Latisha Smith and Tammy Ortenzi; cherished grandchildren, Dustin Smith and wife, Makaela, Korina Campbell and husband, Mark, and Haylee Clark and husband, Jerry; eight adored great grandchildren, Annabeth, Krista-Jo, Colton, Landon, Kinley, Owen, Avery and Ayden; beloved goddaughter and godson, Alyana and Teigen; honorary sisters, Wanda and Kathay; nieces, nephews, cousins and his extended Walmart family he dearly loved; among other family members and dear friends who will cherish his memory.
A celebration of his life will be held in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Wednesday, April 8 at 2 P.M. He will be laid to rest in the Parks-Helton Cemetery.
Friends may visit at the funeral home Wednesday, April 8 after 12 Noon until the time of service.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
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For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.
