Wallace Carl Henderson

Wallace (Wally) Carl Henderson, age 90, passed away peacefully at home after a long and courageous battle with thrombocytopenia and Parkinson's disease. He was a member of Wallace Memorial Baptist Church in Knoxville, TN. Born February 12, 1935, in Lake City, TN, Wallace was the son of the late John Carl and Maude Wallace Henderson.

He spent his childhood in Lake City and Andersonville, where he especially enjoyed time with his maternal grandparents. A proud graduate of Lake City High School's Class of 1953, Wallace went on to serve his country as a member of the U.S. Army, including active duty in Germany from 1958–1960. Following his military service, he built a distinguished career spanning more than three decades with Union Carbide and its predecessor, Martin Marietta Energy Systems.

Wallace was a great man of integrity and character. He deeply cherished his family and was always looking for meaningful ways to honor and support those he loved-as well as countless others. Known by many as a "perfect southern gentleman," he found his greatest joy in time spent with his children and grandchildren. He also loved fishing, cooking, gardening, traveling, and especially treasured family beach trips. For many years, Wallace was an active member and past president of the Volunteer Travelers Square Dance Group.

He is survived by his sisters-in-law, Sue Boatman of Clinton, TN, and Yoshiko Carver of Powell, TN; daughter, Susan Tackett (Alan) of Clinton, TN; son, Jeff Wallace (Martie) of Powell, TN; grandchildren, Greg Tackett (Missy) of Jacksboro, TN, Monica Farner (Glenn) of Nashville, TN, and Lauren Frye (Chad) of Clinton, TN; and great-grandchildren Emily and Seth Tackett, William and Anna Grace Farner, and Landon and Aiden Brown.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret (Margie) Henderson; his parents, John and Maude Henderson; his sister, Martha Jean Henderson; and brothers-in-law, James Boatman (Sue) and Don Carver (Yoshiko).

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Nicole Farrell and Goldie Byrge for the loving care and unwavering dedication they provided throughout Wallace's-and his former wife's-illness. A special thank you is also offered to nurses Dee Dee, Sharon and Lynn and to Amedisys Hospice for their compassionate service.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 from 6:00-7:30 pm at Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton, TN. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery, 5315 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN.

Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of all arrangements. www.holleygamble.com.

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