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William Wright "Bill" Baxter
William Wright "Bill" Baxter
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Bill attended Central High School (1967-1971) before graduating from Duke University (1975) cum laude and University of Tennessee Law School (1978).
He joined his father's industrial gas business, Holston Gases, in 1980 and expanded the single location distributorship from one location in Knoxville to 42 branches operating across 10 states.
Baxter also served as Commissioner of the Department of Economic Development for the State of Tennessee from 1997–2000, appointed by Governor Don Sundquist and on the Board of the Tennessee Valley Authority from 2001–2006, appointed by President George W. Bush.
He purchased the Wort Hotel in Jackson, WY in 2004 and was actively involved in and relished being part of the Jackson community.
Bill leaves his wife of 45 years, Ginger; his sister, Jennifer and husband, Frank Goswtiz; his four children and their spouses: Elizabeth and Rick, Jennifer and Jonathan, Joe and Emily, John and Vivian; also his nine cherished grandchildren, Felix, Beau, Nolan, Cooper, Penelope, Van, Layla, Liliana, and Adriana Jo.
There will be a private celebration of life. In lieu of flowers or food, please send donations to Central High School Foundation (www.centralhighschoolfoundation.com).
Gentry Griffey Funeral Chapel and Crematory is honored to serve the Baxter family. Condolences may be left for the family at www.gentrygriffey.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Junior Duvall
August 25, 2024
Bill had faith in myself and others to open a new location in Bowling Green Ky. Much respect sending my prayers and condolences
Edwin Finley
August 21, 2024
Ginger & all the Baxter family may you find comfort in knowing that Bill is forever eternally with his & our Heavenly Father anticipating the day when we all will be called Home for those who have trusted Christ as their own personal Savior. In days, months, years ahead may God fill each of you with His "New Grace" & the song by the McKamey's "Fron Dust to Glory". Prayerfully ~ Ed (Edwin) Finley, Central High Bobcat Class of 1973.
Sharon Fraker Smith
August 20, 2024
My first memory was watching him play basketball.
Sorry for your loss Ginger and Jenny.
Sharon Fraker Smith, Class of '73
Lesa Story Crippen
August 20, 2024
Dear Ginger, Jenny and family. You are in my continued prayers. So many fond memories of Bill at Central and Young Life. The rides in the VW bus. His trip across country with the guys that included a stop at LSU to see Ginger then a quick stop in Ft Worth to see me on the way to California to catch a flight to Australia to play basketball Then on to Duke. Seeing you two at political events.
Remember the Lincoln day dinner when the waiter dropped a tray of food on my head all over me! One of life's most embarrassing moments. You two have had a wonderful busy life. Lots of memories. Praying the Lord will comfort you as only HE can . Love In Christ, Lesa Story Crippen
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Charlie and Phyllis Severance
August 20, 2024
Ginger. We were saddened to learn of the death of Bill. If anyone has made a difference in this life, it was Bill, who did so much for so many. Joe played Little League with our Son, Michael, with Bill being their coach. Just remember, Bill has gone on to the greatest reward we are offered in this life. May this thought bring you comfort .
Charlie and Phyllis Severance
Chuck, Marc, and Michael
Carl Koella
August 20, 2024
Ginger, Elizabeth, Jennifer, Joe, and John,
We were terribly sorry to learn the news about Bill! It is hard to believe that such a force of nature is gone: his energy, optimism, and drive were contagious. We will never forget his generosity either; who can count the number of Duke Basketball Games hosted at Cameron West and the receptions for the Duke Football games? There cannot possibly ever be a bigger Duke fan than Bill. He did not just improve and expand Holston Gasses-he promoted the quality of life in Knoxville in particular and Tennessee as a whole. The highlight of every Dogwood Arts festival is a tour of the Baxter Gardens, and he did so much to improve the region as TVA Chairman and as Commissioner of Economic Development. We are truly sorry for his death; the world needs a lot more people like Bill.
We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. With deepest sympathy, Carl and Beth Koella
Michael Bowen
August 20, 2024
He walked into the propane department when it was at the river, shook my hand and said his name was Bill. No pretentious titles just a friendly hello. Few people have impressed me that much but he did.
Nancy Hill Campbell
August 19, 2024
So sorry to hear of his passing. He was a great person and will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to the family.
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5301 Fountain Rd, Knoxville, TN 37918
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