Eddie King Thomas

Eddie King Thomas, age 81, of Knoxville, passed away Tuesday, June 7, 2016. He was a graduate of Young High School, class of 1953. He served three years in Germany with the United States Army and was discharged with the rank of Sergeant from the First Infantry Division. He was a graduate of the University of Tennessee, class of 1961. During his time at UT, he played in the Pride of the Southland Marching Band. Retired to lake living in Blount County, he enjoyed boating, fishing and skiing (in younger days). An avid UT sports fan and golfer, he loved golfing with buddies Jim Campbell, Joe Horner, Bo Clark, Kenneth McNutt and Jerry Hatmaker. A simple man with simple pleasures, he loved his family dearly and especially took pleasure in watching his children bowl and babysitting grandson Nicholas on Wednesday evenings. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lynn Berneice King and Tommie Edward Thomas; and brother, Tommy Orville. He is survived by his wife, Brenda; children, Kenneth Paul and wife Sonya and daughter, Stephanie Owens, Tommy Edward, Shana Jenkins and husband Eric and their mother, Sandra Paul Thomas; grandson, Nicholas Grady; stepson, Paul Disney and step-grandchildren, Amanda and Lurena; brothers, Billy Rhea and wife Beckie; James Burnette and wife Patricia, and Charles Lynn; brother-in-law, Jerry Hatmaker and wife, Betty. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Berry Funeral Home, 3704 Chapman Highway, on Friday, June 10, 2016. Condolences may be offered at www.berryfuneralhome.com.