Walter G. Seymour

Walter G. Seymour passed away peacefully at home after several months of declining health on August 31, at age 91. Born in Union County and having lost both parents by age 13 he moved to North Knoxville to live with his older sister. At age 17 he left these Tennessee Hills for the first time taking a train ride to San Diego to join the USN. After training he was on the christening crew of the USS Kyne. In 1944, he sailed to the South Pacific to serve in our war effort as a naval reserve. He also served in Greencove Springs Florida during the Korean Conflict. In 1947, he married the love of his life Betty and began his family, having children in three different decades. After marriage, he joined Ridgeview Baptist Church and was a faithful member until the end. He dearly loved his church and his Christian brothers and sisters, having many lifelong friendships. He served as a deacon and loved singing in the choir as well as lending a hand to any remodeling projects that were happening. In 1954, he began his 36-year career as a machinist at Union Carbide-Y12. Having 2 children then and 2 yet to arrive he was always thankful to have a job sufficient enough to provide for his family. He loved family/friend gatherings that consisted of fish fry’s and ice cream socials. Traveling was a highlight as he went through all the states and up the Alaskan Highway twice. He loved to talk about his trips to Hawaii and his trip to Germany to visit his nephew. He loved following the UT Vols and went to many games in the 1950’s and holding season ticket during the Majors and Fulmer years. Fortunate enough to have all of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in Knoxville he cherished watching them grow up and see their many achievements in life. He was a proud member of the IAM and the Powell Masonic Lodge. The family would like to extend a huge thank you to UT Hospice especially nurse DeWayne for their gentle care and also Geneva, Renee, and Carolyn from “It’s All About You Home Care” who so graciously cared for Dad the past 2 weeks. They were a blessing to us all. The world has lost one of the greatest men of his generation, but heaven has gained a beautiful soul and we can all rejoice knowing that his priority was always God, family, and country. Preceded in death by wife of 66 years Betty Taylor Seymour; 2 sisters; 3 brothers; 1 great-grandson. Survived by children Janice Hines (Gary), Gerald Seymour (Margie), Tammy Seymour, Jill Jones (Bob); 3 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; sister Dana Moore (Buck); plenty of nieces and nephews. Family will receive friends 5:00p.m.-7:00p.m. Friday September 1, 2017 at Ridgeview Baptist Church with service to follow, Rev. Maston Jackson officiating Family and friends will meet 10:45a.m. Saturday September 2, 2017 at New Gray Cemetery for 11:00a.m. interment. Please leave online condolences at www.mynattfh.com