Obituaries

Kenneth Virgil McSpadden passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Monday, May 25, 2026, at The Waters in Maryville, Tennessee, surrounded by the love and care of family. Born on September 24, 1941, in Dandridge, Tennessee, Ken was the son of the late Ramon and Eulah McSpadden. He lived a full life marked by hard work, loyalty, humor, and a deep love for his family and friends. Ken was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wanda Helton McSpadden, who passed away in March 1996, as well as his parents, Ramon and Eulah McSpadden, and his brother and lifelong coon hunting buddy, J.R. McSpadden. He is survived by his four daughters: Pamela McSpadden Trentham and husband Rick Trentham; Cheryl McSpadden Effler and husband Dennis Effler; Joy McSpadden Cagle and husband Dale Cagle; and Angela McSpadden McLemore and husband Josh McLemore. He also leaves behind six grandchildren: Travis Trentham and wife Brittany Trentham; Josh Trentham and wife Laura Trentham; Adam Effler and wife Wonnell Effler; Katie Effler Middleton and husband Eric Middleton; Creed Cagle; and Chase Foster and wife Courtney Foster; and nine great-grandchildren: Zoe Trentham, Ella Trentham, Levi Trentham, Josie Trentham, Kenlee Effler, Tyler Middleton, Jaxson Middleton, Aubrey Middleton, and Charlotte Foster. Ken is also survived by his sisters, Margie Shaw and Evelyn Newman and husband Danny Newman; his brother, Charles McSpadden and wife Marsha McSpadden; his sisters-in-law, Jean Helton and Phyllis McSpadden; as well as countless nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. Before his health declined, Ken loved coon hunting his redbones with his brother, J.R. He enjoyed attending or watching NASCAR races — especially before “it got weird” — while cheering on his favorite driver, Ricky Rudd. He also loved traveling with friends and with his daughters and their families. But above all else, his greatest joy came from watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren play sports. Whether in the stands or watching from home, he never stopped cheering them on. Ken worked for many years as a Volvo mechanic at Clayton Volvo. He was known for always showing up to work — just not always on time. As Joe Clayton often said, Ken could “come in any time he wanted.” The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to his dear friend, Jewell Price. Both widowed, they reconnected at their high school reunion and shared a special companionship in later years. Her unwavering love, friendship, and support meant the world to Ken and brought him great comfort and happiness. The family would like to recognize and thank the caregivers at The Waters, especially Kelly, Donna, and all the CNAs who not only cared for Ken but also lovingly supported and comforted his family through difficult days with explanations, compassion, and countless hugs. The family would also like to express their gratitude to UT Hospice, especially Christian, Victoria and Courtney, for preparing them for the inevitable in a realistic yet gentle way. All of these caregivers are truly angels among us, doing God’s work, and the family is forever grateful for their light in the darkness. Flowers are welcome; however, if you so choose to donate, please consider UT Hospice and/or the Alzheimer’s Association. Ken’s family and friends will forever remember his wit, stubborn independence, work ethic, and unwavering love for those he held dear. His memory will continue to live on in every race watched, every hunting story told, and every child and grandchild he proudly cheered for from the sidelines.