George E. Whedbee knew a lot of people and knew a lot about many things, particularly buildings in the old city school system and Knox County Schools.
He passed away on September 23, 2023, at age 85. His wife of 57 years, Carolyn Darden Whedbee, preceded him in death. George was all about Fountain City. He graduated from Central High School and lived there through his working career and in retirement.
Gary Bergeron, a consulting engineer, recalled working with George on several projects when he was with Knox County School, Cope & Associates Architects and at Central United Methodist Church. “George always greeted everyone with a smile and firm handshake. There were many times that George understood construction at new and existing buildings and would always be the voice of reason in several progress meetings. George will be sorely missed in the East TN building and design community.”
Colleagues used words like kind, good man, helpful, problem solver, so nice, very smart, very knowledgeable and good friend.
“He was special,” said Kay Dawson.
“Mr. Whedbee was a gift to all Knox County employees and students,” said Carolyn Mongue Lee.
David Huntsinger called him “a person who was always willing to listen.”
Betty Sue Ward Sparks, herself a retired school administrator from Fountain City, said, “He was a good man, a strong administrator and the best typing teacher ever. He will be missed.”
A celebration of life is scheduled for Monday, October 2, 2023, with visitation from 5-7 p.m. with the service to follow at Central United Methodist Church, 201 3rd Avenue, Knoxville. The full obituary is here.