Tracey Elise Cleek

Tracey Elise Cleek, 61, of Kingsport, Tennessee passed away peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior on May 29, 2026, surrounded by the family she loved so deeply. Born and raised in Kingsport, Tracey was a proud member of the first graduating class of Sullivan South High School, graduating at the age of 16. She later earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from East Tennessee State University. She was a member of the Junior League of Kingsport. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church.

Tracey shared a beautiful marriage with her husband and best friend, Scott Cleek, for 40 years. Together they built a life centered on faith, family and friendship and service to others. She was a loving mother to her daughter, Lucy Cleek, and cherished every moment spent with her family.

She is survived by her husband, Scott Cleek; daughter, Lucy Cleek; sisters, Sara Hope Blakley (Bret) and Shannon Hurd (Tim); half-brother, John Powell (Aminda); forever-adored niece and nephew, Hannah and Will Hurd; along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Jo Ann Childress, and her father, Wayland Childress.

Tracey was known for her warm heart, unwavering faith, infectious laughter, and spirited personality. She loved the Lord wholeheartedly and confidently relied on God’s plan through every season of life. No matter the circumstance, she trusted Him completely and encouraged others to do the same.

Affectionately known as "Wicked" to her family and closest friends, it was a nickname that became synonymous with who she was. Those who knew and loved Tracey knew her as "Wicked" by heart – a name that perfectly captured her quick wit, playful spirit, and the little bit of sass she carried so effortlessly. Hearing that nickname will forever bring smiles, cherished memories, and stories shared among those lucky enough to have known her.

On August 1, 2025, Tracey was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis that shook her family but never diminished her faith. From the very beginning, she faced every challenge with remarkable courage, grace, and determination. Time and again, she defied the odds placed before her, exceeding expectations and inspiring everyone around her. Through countless treatments, appointments, and obstacles, she never stopped fighting. More importantly, she never stopped trusting God. Her strength became a testimony to all who witnessed her journey, and her unwavering faith carried her through every victory and every setback. To her family, friends, and medical team, she was nothing short of a miracle.

She and Scott owned and operated L.E. Clark’s Grocery, where she built lasting friendships throughout the community. Tracey also worked as a Senior Work Scheduling Coordinator at AEP for the past 20 years. She was a distinguished member of the Carter Society at East Tennessee State University. She was also an avid sports fan, proudly cheering on the ETSU Buccaneers, Alabama Crimson Tide, and Tennessee Volunteers. In her free time, she found joy in gardening, DIY projects, cooking, reading, and quilting.

Tracey was the ultimate hostess. She loved planning gatherings, opening her home to others, and creating memories with family and friends. No one threw a party quite like Tracey, and her home was often the place where laughter was loudest and everyone felt welcome. Tracey adored her beloved poodles and rarely met a stranger. She had a gift for making people feel seen, loved, and valued. Whether hosting family gatherings, helping a friend, decorating a home, or offering words of encouragement, she poured her heart into everything she did. She was the host of countless celebrations, the one everyone could count on, and the person who made every room feel a little brighter simply by being in it. While her family grieves her loss, they find comfort in knowing that Tracey is now fully healed and at peace in the presence of her Savior. Throughout her courageous journey, she remained steadfast in her faith, reminding those around her that God had a plan no matter how the story unfolded. Her legacy of faith, strength, love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched.

Well done, good and faithful servant. - Matthew 25 :23

The family asks that those who knew and loved Tracey honor her memory by extending kindness to others, trusting in God’s plan, and cherishing time with family and friends – the things she valued most.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 28, 2026 at 3 :00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsport, Tennessee.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause that was dear to Tracey’s heart.