Denise L. McGaha

Dr. Denise LeAnn McGaha, age 57, of Knoxville,TN, passed away peacefully on 10/19/2025.

A devoted sister, mother, grandmother, and lifelong educator, Denise dedicated her life to lifting others through learning and leadership. She began her career as a high school English teacher, where her love for literature and her unwavering belief in her students left a lasting impact on countless young lives. Her passion for education led her to become a high school principal, and later she earned her Doctorate in Education — a testament to her determination, service, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Denise was more than an educator; she was a mentor, advocate, and friend to many. Her warmth, wit, and strength inspired everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

She is survived by her two beloved sons, Jared and Dustin, Kelsey Wolfe, her cherished grandchildren, Adeline, Raidyn and Benny, her father, Dennis Cummings, and her siblings Dana Shipley and her husband Brandon, Kelly Cummings and his wife Kate, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother Karen Buck Cummings, grandparents James and Helen Cummings, grandfather Henry Lawrence Buck and grandmother Bonnie Thaxton.

A celebration of her life will be held in the coming weeks; details will be shared by family and friends when arrangements are finalized. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Jimmy V Foundation for Cancer Research in her honor — a legacy befitting her lifelong commitment to education.

Her impact will live on in every life she touched. She taught with grace, led with courage, and loved with her whole heart.