George Edward Atchley

George Edward Atchley peacefully passed away on Thursday, December 2, in his hometown of Maryville, Tennessee. Ed was a graduate of Everette High School where he lettered in basketball. He served in the US Air Force for 21 years where he received the Bronze Star and Commendation Medals for his distinguished Meritorious Service. After retiring 1975 from the Air Force, he worked 18 years at William Blount High school. Ed was a huge Tennessee Vols fan, especially Football and Ladies Basketball, and was lucky enough to attend several games in person during his years that gave him great pleasure and honor. He was a long-time church member at Madison Avenue Baptist Church where he and Sondra managed Sunday coffee and kitchen activities. Ed is survived by his beautiful wife Sondra Jane Atchley (Kidd) of 44 years; children: Cheri Ryall (David), Stepson Mark Maness, Dale Atchley (Brenda), Stepson Chuck Maness (Martine) and Kimberly Keeble; grandchildren: Michele Murphy (Mark), Mike Lonsway (Michelle), Tiffany Keeble, Thomas Keeble, Kylie Maness; great grandchildren: Macey Murphy; sister: Billie Joyce Guffy. He is predeceased by his parents and 3 sisters. Friends may come by the funeral home for viewing and signing the register book between the hours of 9:00 – 4:00 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 7 and Wednesday, Dec. 8. Ed will be honored in a Military graveside service 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 9 at Carpenters Methodist Church, 3538 Best Road. In lieu of flowers, Ed prefers donations be made to Wounded Worriers or St. Jude’s Children’s hospital. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, 1402 Tuckaleechee Pike, Maryville, Tennessee, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of George Edward Atchley please visit our Sympathy Store.