John Roy Whaley Jr.

John Roy “JR” Whaley, Jr. left his earthly body behind Saturday, August 18, 2012. Born May 23, 1925, he was a life long resident of Knoxville, TN. He was a former active member and deacon at Fifth Avenue Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of Knoxville. Central Baptist Church of Bearden held his membership at his death. He was a member of Burlington Lodge #458 F&AM and a Scottish Rite Mason. He retired from TVA after 25 years of service. He served the army from 1943–1946 in Europe in the 3rd Army, 5th Corp, 16th Armored Division, C-troop, 23rd Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (mech.), in Germany and Czechoslovakia. Preceded in death by the love of his life, wife, Martha Lou Akers Whaley, mother, Donna S. Whaley, father, John Roy Whaley, Sr. and niece, Pattie Gay Whaley. He is survived by his beloved children and grandchildren: son and daughter-in-law, John R. (Jack) Whaley III and Dotty, daughter and son-in-law, Melissa W. Zachary and Stan; grandchildren, Matthew and Sophia Zachary; step-grandchildren, Chris Wallen, Melissa Kuzak; step-great-grandchildren, Brandon, Nathan and Sarah Kuzak; brother and sister-in-law, Richard L. Whaley and Patsy; nieces and nephews, Richard L. Whaley, Jr and wife Penny, Alicia A. Boyd and Mark S. Akers. The family will receive friends Tuesday, August 21, 2012 from 5-7 PM with service to follow at 7 PM at Berry Funeral Home Rev. Robert E. Money and Dr. Wendell Boertje officiating. Internment at Woodlawn Cemetery Wednesday, August 22, 2012 at 10 AM. Honorary Pallbearers: Jack Whaley, Stan Zachary, Matt Zachary, Dick Whaley, Rick Whaley and Estil Hamilton. Memorials may be made to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and/or Alzheimers Association. Condolences may be offered at www.berryfuneralhome.com.