Fred P. McArthur

Fred Proffitt McArthur of Maryville, TN, died on December 17, 2022 in Maryville. He created colorful chapters over his 78 years, taking every opportunity to add a new friend to his life’s story. Family was his heart. He was an adored husband, father, grandfather and brother.

Fred was the creator of memories as big as his signature cowboy boots and belt buckle. Armed with his bright smile, he had a gift for seeing potential in people and places others would look past. Endeavors started with a clear picture in his mind and confidence that the details would sort themselves out. Working countless hours, most days getting up before the sun, he made them reality.

He built his first racecar at age 9, negotiated his first real estate deal at 19, designed furniture at 27, opened a country store at 35, and a mattress factory at 45. Fred showed horses, auctioned antiques, owned motels and a restaurant, made worn out buildings new again, and raced cars until age 60.

Fred enjoyed a professional career that included 35 years in real estate, 20 years in the home furnishings industry, and too many side gigs to name. He was recognized for his unique selling philosophy, speaking nationally about sales and customer service strategies. He received accolades for his approach to building relationships with his customers. As a member of the Historic Planning Commission, Fred was active in the planning of Maryville’s College Hill Historic District where he grew up and renovated many homes. In the final years of his career, he took great pride in his work as a real estate developer to revitalize property near the Smoky Mountains. Retirement to Florida brought him many blessings, especially a standing date for afternoon drinks at the Delray Beach Club.

He loved a road trip in his motorcoach, with his beloved wife Wanda, to discover new places and see a Nascar race along the way. Every stop becoming part of the rich history of their life together. Staying the same course never interested him, there was always the next great adventure, people to meet, and places to go “driving around with the top down.”

Fred’s deep faith and dear friendships lifted him in this last year of his life, something his family will remember with gratitude. He is survived by his children Kathleen Mosher and husband Tom, Elisabeth Bellah and husband Eric, Lauren Blair and husband Peter, Cheryl Fluhr, sister Alida Graves, brother Stainton McArthur and wife Gail, as well as his grandchildren, Grace and Anne Lauren Bellah, Joseph and Seth Blair, Parker Fluhr, and Caroline and Hannah Mosher. Fred was proceeded in death by his wife Wanda, parents David and Grace McArthur, and brother Graham McArthur.

A service will be held on December 28 at 3 p.m. at New Providence Presbyterian Church in Maryville. Memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made to New Providence.