Emali Denai Sage

On October 2, 2024, the world lost a truly remarkable soul, Emali Denai Sage, who passed away at the age of 34 at Tennova North Medical Center in Powell, Tennessee. Born on March 13, 1990, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Emali lived a life filled with love, resilience, and an indomitable spirit that touched everyone she met.

Emali was a wild horse with a free spirit and a heart of pure gold. Throughout her life, she faced immense hardships and loss, yet she never allowed these tragedies to define her. Instead, she was a fighter, embodying strength and compassion even in moments of adversity. She loved with all of her heart, even those who were less than deserving. Her unexpected passing from an unknown illness was a shock to all who knew her, leaving a void that can never truly be filled.

She was preceded in death by her dear mother, Donna Lynn Sage, as well as her brothers Richard and Gregory Sage, grandfathers James Sage and William James, and uncles Nathan and Michael James.

She is survived by her remarkable grandmother Jane James, who fufilled the role of both mother and grandmother, devoted fiancé, Mark Jones, and her six cherished children: Emani, Drae, Gabe, and Kohlsen along with Aiden, and Gracie, who were not biological but still her children none the less. They will all carry forward her legacy of love and resilience. Emali was also a treasured sister to Nichole and her husband Justin Beard, Kaitlen and her husband Josh Harvey, and Tessa and her husband Trent Mingie. A second family she came to adopt as her own, Lynn and Randy Fowler, who she called Mom and Dad, and their daughters Lyndsey and her husband Jamie Spangler, and Kelsey Fowler, who all held a special place in her heart. Emali's family extended much further to include numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins, alongside a very special friend, Daniel Hughett and many more. 

Emali’s legacy of generosity and kindness transcends her earthly life. Her selfless gift of organ donation saved the lives of five individuals across the United States. Her heart continues to beat, her lungs breathe new life, her kidneys provide health, and her liver offers a renewed future for those who received her incredible gifts. Her recipients will forever be grateful for the lifeline she extended to them, a testament to her enduring spirit of giving.

In these difficult times, the family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the medical staff at Tennova North Medical Center and Organ Donation Coordinator Angela, for their compassion and support. Their kindness brought comfort during an otherwise difficult time.

Family and friends will celebrate her life and the profound impact she had on others on a later date as they are awaiting letters from Emali's donor recipients. She will be missed beyond measure, but her life and legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know her.

Emali's memory will forever be cherished, and her spirit will remain a guiding light to her family and friends. Her life, though brief, was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the human spirit. Rest in peace, dear Emali, knowing you have left the world a better place.