In Loving Memory of Peggy Forgey Rinks

Peggy Forgey Rinks, 85, of Harrison, TN, entered into the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ, peacefully in her home on October 28, 2025. She was born on December 5, 1939, to the late Ross and Bertha Forgey, and she was one of eleven children. She grew up in a tight knit large family where love and laughter were plenty. She graduated from Tyner High School in 1958, and later she attended Baptist University of Florida.

She was the cherished wife of Dr. Jack Rinks for 67 years. Together they had three children Christy, Timmy, and Keri. Peggy served the Lord as a pastor's wife for over 50 years. Whether teaching Sunday school, preparing meals for loved ones, or offering a listening ear, she ministered with humility and joy. Her hands were never idle, her prayers never ceasing, and her heart always open. Over their years of ministry they served in churches in Cookville, TN, Jetmore, KS, Graceville, FL, Donalville, GA, Flintville, TN, Tompkinsville, KY, and Anderson, SC.

After retiring from ministry they returned home to Harrison, TN where Peggy loved and enjoyed being back with her family on "Forgey Circle." Peggy was a member of Bayside Baptist Church.

Peggy lit up a room when she walked in. She brought joy and lightheartedness to every situation. Peggy lived her life as a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt. Her grandchildren knew her as "Nanny". Her home was a sanctuary of warmth, laughter, and faith, a place where generations gathered, and the love of Christ was always present. Her greatest joy was making her house a home where all were welcomed. She added humor and fun to all family gatherings. "To know was to love her" was so true of her.

Peggy loved shopping, especially at TJMaxx. She loved the family beach trip each year, where she enjoyed time with family and the homemade ice cream shoppe. This was a family tradition since the 1970's.

She is survived by her husband, Dr. Jack J. Rinks; daughter, Christy Orrison and her husband, Buck Orrison; daughter, Keri McBride and her husband, Brad McBride; grandchildren, Brittni Orrison, Zach Orrison, Maddie Rhodes and her husband, Josh Rhodes, Maclaine McBride, and Ben McBride; great-grandchildren, Clara Rhodes & Jack Rhodes.

She leaves behind a family deeply blessed by her presence and profoundly shaped by her example.

We invite family and friends to join us as we remember her life.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. at New Bethel Baptist Church, 8740 Harrison Bay Rd, Harrison TN.  A visitation will also be held on Sunday, November 2, 2025 from 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m. at the church.  A service will follow at 2 p.m. with Pastor Jack Rinks, Dr. Stephen Granger and Pastor Paul Forgey officiating.

Peggy will be laid to rest in Chattanooga National Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025.

Please share your memories and express condolences to the family on their guestbook.