David William "Bill" Gillenwater

Gillenwater, David William (Bill), age 73, born to sing and “make a joyful noise,” mercifully and peacefully passed on to heaven, Saturday, November 30, 2013 surrounded by his loving family who supported and cared for him during his long “battle” with cancer. He will be so missed by Sue Gillenwater, his “sweetheart” and loving wife of 49 years; his three sons, Brian and wife Cathy, Matthew and wife Rojion, Brannan and wife Hope; adopted daughter Hayley Taylor; grandchildren, Taylor, Ashley, Max, Sydney, Charlie, and Wyatt; loving sister, Jane McNeely; brother-in- laws, John Clapp, Eddie Rolen, Gary Lloyd and wife Nicki. He also loved and supported all his nieces and nephews. He loved parenting, even if it wasn’t his own children. He was preceded in death by his wonderful Dad and Mom, David and Mary Gillenwater; his brother and nephew, Bob Gillenwater and Mark Gillenwater; his sweet sister, Marjorie Clapp; brother-in-law, George McNeely; and sister-in-law, Denise Taylor. Bill loved and served the Lord with the beautiful personality and voice God gave him whether it was in school, “rock and roll” bands of the 50’s, or his favorite, as Minister of Music at Cedar Grove Baptist Church, Stock Creek Baptist Church and Sevier Heights Baptist Church. Besides music, his other passion was his family’s flooring business where he was able to meet and love so many people, and they were able to love and pray for him. His whole life was about friendliness, kindness, loving the Lord and loving people. Whether he was at church or work, (he loved and appreciated all his employees,) meetings, Optimist Club of Knoxville; he was always shaking hands, hugging, smiling, and greeting people. He has been so grateful for all the people at Thompson Cancer Survival Center at Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville. A Celebration of Life service followed by a Gathering of Friends and Family will be at Sevier Heights Baptist Church on Alcoa Highway. The Celebration of Life will be at 6:00 PM on Tuesday, December 3, 2013 with pastors, Dr. Bob Lynch and Gene Wood officiating and the Gathering of Friends and Family will be at 7:00 PM. Interment will be at 12:00 PM on Wednesday, December 4, 2013 at Cedar Grove Baptist Cemetery in Maryville. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Mayo Clinic Cancer Research in Rochester, Minnesota or Cedar Grove Baptist Church music or youth programs, 5302 Nails Creek Road Maryville, TN 37804. Arrangements by Berry Funeral Home. Condolences may be offered at www.berryfuneralhome.com