Elijah King Hendricks was born July 10, 2008 to Jonathon Hendricks and Sarah Speer. Following a tragic accident, Elijah passed away in Blount Memorial's ICU on September 9, 2026 at 2:00 pm.

To look back on Elijah's life is a pleasure. There is no appropriate word, nor enough, in language to sum him. Of all the things we knew of Elijah, he was handsome, humble, loving, and sincere. To release him into the ether to the loving hands of our creator leaves a heavy hole once consumed by the light of a little boy, child, young man. One of Elijah's good days would make your worst day instantly your best day. He offered his love freely and sincerely. He was deeply loved as a son, family member and friend.

Elijah is survived by his Grandfather and Grandmother Sonya and Jack Hendricks; his mother Sarah Speer; his father, Jonathon Hendricks; his stepmother, Jordyn Hendricks, and his siblings, Micah Speer, Xander Hendricks, Georgia Hendricks, and Beau McCarter, along with many other family members and friends who loved him dearly.

Elijah,

If you're in the wind, cool me off. If you're in the sun, warm my face. If you're in the thunder, laugh for me. I love you more than you could have known and I will miss you my whole life.

Love,

Dad

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 25th, 2026, at 2:00pm at Victory Baptist Church in Maryville. Elijah will be laid to rest at following the service at 3:00pm in Louisville Cemetery.

Condolences to the family may be shared at Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, 865-983-1000, or at www.smithfuneralandcremation.com