Denton McKeehan

Denton McKeehan, we said our final farewell on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at the age of 79, leaving behind the curse of cancer. He was a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. His lap was loved by all children and his wisdom was sought by friends and family alike. Denton, fondly referred to as Gramps, will be remembered most for his silly songs, baby snuggles, discerning advice, quiet selflessness, and loyal (sometimes most vocal) sports supporter. Few things brought him greater joy than his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Denton was a graduate of Everett High School and the University of Tennessee School of Engineering. He retired from TVA and was a devoted Christian who served in a variety of areas of his church, Laurel Bank Baptist Church. Preceded in death by: parents, Violet and Herbert McKeehan; sister, Donna Carol Anderson. Denton leaves behind his wife of nearly 56 years, Thelma, who administered amazing care and devotion to him through the curse of his disease and death. His mind was sharp until the very end though his earthly body failed him. He also leaves his sons, Brent McKeehan and Craig McKeehan; daughters and sons-in-law, Lysia and Kent Vaught and Laura and Scot Tyler; 13 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Tyson and Lucy McKeehan; sister and brother-in-law, Vera and Jerry Cutshaw; brother-in-law, Ray Anderson. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee, www.secondharvestetn.org. Family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Saturday, October 13, 2018 in the Smith Trinity Chapel. Memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Dr. Charles Bailey and Rev. Tyson McKeehan officiating. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Denton McKeehan please visit our Sympathy Store.