Clarence Edward Heaton

February 9, 1932 - December 10, 2025

Clarence E. Heaton peacefully entered his eternal heavenly home at 6:20 AM on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. Clarence was born on February 9, 1932 in Andalusia, Alabama, the son of Floyd and Ossie Mae Heaton.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Floyd C. Heaton, sister Doris Carr, brothers Fred Heaton and Floyd Heaton Jr., and his wife Mickie Heaton.

Clarence is survived by his children and grandchildren: Teresa [Collin] Atnip and their children Jon and Kari; Edward [Wendi] Heaton and their children Noah and Adam; Laurie [Jody] Rush and their son Andre; Andrew Heaton; and brother Ralph Heaton and his wife Carolyn.

Clarence completed high school at Bay County High in Panama City, Florida. He enlisted into the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. After proudly serving four years in the navy, he studied two years at Alabama Christian College in Montgomery. He also attended Panama City, Florida community college where he met Micheline (Mickie). He married his sweetheart Mickie on July 11, 1959.

After his studies, Clarence entered the printing trade. He eventually moved his young family from Florida to Kokomo, Indiana, working as a skilled pressman for many years at Cuneo Press. In 1982 he moved to Knoxville, Tennessee where he worked for Mission Services Association as their pressman until he retired. He then enjoyed working for several years at Dollywood Theme Park with his wife, making new friends while working there.

Clarence was especially proud of his service in the US Navy, sharing his story, with patriotic pride of the many experiences he lived during his time in the navy. He liked reading books and watching documentaries about American and world history.

His favorite hobbies were hunting, woodworking, and playing his harmonica. He was able to play nearly any song requested. He also delighted in telling “dad” jokes.

Clarence faithfully worshipped in the assembly of the Lord’s church every week. During his life he served for a time as deacon at the Alto Road Church of Christ in Kokomo, Indiana and as elder at the Laurel Church of Christ in Knoxville, Tennessee. In his last years he was a member of the Maryville (Tennessee) Church of Christ.

A receiving of friends and family will be held at Berry Funeral Home, located at 3704 Chapman Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920, on January 24th, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The funeral service will follow at the same location, beginning at 7:00 pm.

A committal with military honors will commence on January 26th, 2026 starting promptly at 12:30pm located at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 2200 E Governor John Sevier Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920

Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with the Heaton family at www.berryfuneralhome.com