Ron McEntyre

On August 6, 2026, Ron McEntyre, age 85, entered his heavenly home after a difficult journey with Parkinson’s disease. He was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Lois and Bud Harbin, his parents, Milous and Pauline “Pat” McEntyre, and his son, Robert Ryan McEntyre. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Betty Elizabeth Davis McEntyre; his daughter, Christi Massengill; his son, Michael McEntyre (Carol); and his grandchildren, Patrick Massengill, Megan Massengill (Devin), Nathan McEntyre, and Marin McEntyre.

Ron was born and raised in the Lonsdale community of Knoxville. As a young boy, he experienced the profound loss of his father, who was killed during the D-Day invasion in World War II. His mother, Pat, raised Ron and his sister, Lois, with the loving support of neighbors who became like family. Those early experiences instilled in Ron a deep appreciation for community, resilience, hard work, and helping others.

A graduate of Rule High School (1958), Ron later attended the University of Tennessee. While working at Sears in Knoxville, he met the love of his life, Betty Elizabeth Davis. Ron loved telling people that he "found his wife in the Sears catalog," a joke that reflected his quick wit and playful sense of humor. They married and began a life together that included time in Charlottesville, VA and Hendersonville, TN before returning to Knoxville in 1978 to begin his career as a relocation consultant with Akers Allied Moving and Storage, a job he would hold until he retired.

Family, faith, and friendship were the cornerstones of Ron's life. He was a faithful member of Lonsdale United Methodist Church, where he taught Sunday School for more than 40 years, and invested in the lives of countless people through his teaching, encouragement, and quiet example of faith.

Ron was known as a devoted husband, caring father, playful grandfather, dependable friend, and good neighbor. He treasured the friendships he shared with the neighbors of Cedar Crest North, enjoyed countless hours fishing with his good friend Toby, and remained especially close to his sister Lois’ family- brother-in-law, Bud and their sons, Greg, Randy, and Danny Harbin.

Those who knew Ron will remember his creativity, resolve, and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever it was needed. He loved telling a tall tale, enjoyed practical jokes, and appreciated a good laugh. More than anything, he loved his family and lived a life marked by service, humility, and steadfast faith.

Although he will be deeply missed, his family rejoices in the assurance that he is now at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 15 at Lonsdale United Methodist Church. There will be a receiving of friends from 3:00-5:00 p.m., with the service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lonsdale United Methodist Church Food Pantry Fund, P.O. Box 30251, Knoxville, TN 37930.