Jerry Lynn Wheat

Jerry Lynn Wheat, age 76 of Maryville, passed away Monday, December 18, 2023, at his home.  He was born in Lenoir City and graduated from Lenoir City High School in 1965.  He later attended Maryville College and graduated with his Business Degree in 1992.  Jerry retired from the United States Air Force with the rank of MSGT.  He served in Vietnam at Bien Hoa Air Force Base.  He worked for many years serving his country at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard where he handled payroll for airbase personnel.  Prior to that, he served at Blytheville Air Force Base in Arkansas.  Ever the hard worker, after retiring from the USAF, he held a number of jobs, including the Y-12 Federal Credit Union and H & R Block. Thereafter, he became a private tax preparer.  Jerry enjoyed reading, especially Tom Clancy and John Grisham novels, and spending time with his family. He was a member of several Facebook Veterans groups and had a soft heart for homeless veterans, which led to his consistent support of Knox Area Rescue Ministries in recent years. Preceded in death by:  parents, James Dexter and Ruby Tuck Wheat; five brother and sisters, Dottie, JoAnne, Glenn, Billy, and an infant brother; 1^st wife, Connie Vann Wheat; 2^nd wife, Christina Dwayne Killebrew Wheat.  Survivors include: two children, Tonya & John Willis of Knoxville and Michael & Amie Wheat of Maryville; step-daughter, Amy Thompson & husband, Jerry, of Maryville; grandchildren, Alisha, Colin, Wyatt, Mackenzie, Omar Jr., and Liliana; best friend, Mitch Price; special friend/former neighbor, Henry Gates.  Special thanks to Blount Memorial Hospice nurses and the caregivers of Home Instead, Joe a/k/a Tiny, Angel, and Stuart.  In lieu of flowers, please make donations to KARM or your favorite veterans charity. Family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 PM, Friday, December 22, 2023 at Smith Trinity Chapel.  Funeral service will be at 7:00 PM with Rev. Gary Thomas and Mitch Price officiating.  Inurnment will be announced at a later date.  Condolences may be shared through Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.smithfuneralandcremation.com.