Curtis Bentley "Ben" Atchley Jr.

Curtis Bentley "Ben" Atchley, Jr., age 88, of South Knoxville, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday evening, November 14, 2018. Ben graduated from Young High School, class of 1949. After he graduated high school, Ben served as a Seabee in the United States Navy and served in the Navy Reserves for ten years. Ben also attended the University of Tennessee. He worked at South Central Bell for ten years and then began a career in the insurance industry helping found Atchley, Cunningham & Shoemaker. Ben was a member of the South Knoxville Masonic Lodge #769 F&AM; Scottish Rite and Shriner. He was a Ruling Elder of Graystone Presbyterian Church where he was a member for 51 years. During his career as a public servant, he earned the moniker, "Gentle Ben." Senator Atchley was the Quintessential Statesman like Governor Winfield Dunn and the late Senator Howard Baker. Ben effectively, tirelessly and selflessly carried the mantle of leadership, was trusted and respected by everyone and was the example and model of civility. He played a pre-eminent role in Knoxville, Knox County and Tennessee with his unparalleled dedication to good government. He was an ardent champion for the University of Tennessee and its key role for the state. In 1972 Ben began his political career when he was elected to the Tennessee State House of Representatives and then in 1976 elected to the Tennessee State Senate where he served until his retirement in November of 2004. He was unanimously elected Senate Republican Caucus Chairman in 1983 and served in that leadership position until January of 1986 when he was unanimously elected Senate Republican Leader and unanimously reelected through 2004. He was the longest serving Republican Leader in Tennessee State Senate history. The prestigious State Legislative Leaders Foundation selected Ben to be a member in 1987, becoming Vice Chairman 1991-1995, elected Chairman 1995-1998, and then being named Chairman Emeritus. Ben was appointed to the Advisory Council on Governmental Ethics for the Josephson Institute for Ethics in Government. In 1985 Ben was in the first class of Leadership Knoxville, served on that board for many years and hosted State Government Days for this group 1985-2004, and later hosted many other leadership groups from across the state. Because he was admired and respected by many political organizations as well as governmental entities, Ben was recognized and received many awards and was honored as Statesman of the Year in 1996 by the Tennessee Republican Party. Among his great legacies was building the Senate Republican Caucus as well as his efforts to keep the Senate a congenial and collegial body. Both were results of his gentlemanly approach to governance and his willingness to put the interests of Tennesseans ahead of partisanship and special interests. Ben had an infectious laugh, a kind demeanor, a joyous disposition and an amazing optimistic outlook. He was a major influence with his outgoing personality and his generous loving spirit which will always be admired, appreciated and treasured. Special thanks to the caretakers at Life Care Center of Blount County. Preceded in death by parents; Curtis and Alma Atchley; brothers, Jack and Ed Atchley. Survivors include wife of 68 years, Sue K. Atchley; son, Jerry Atchley (Cathy); daughter, Cindy Atchley; granddaughters, Lori Maupin (Jeremy) and Jennifer Atchley; great grandsons, Ayden and Andrew Maupin; brothers, Bob Atchley (Joyce) and Blaine Atchley (Carol); numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and special "foster family" member, Tootie Haskins. Friends may call at their convenience on Saturday, November 17, 2018 at Berry Funeral Home, 3704 Chapman Hwy., Knoxville TN 37920 from 9:00am until 5:00pm. Family and friends will meet at New Prospect Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 4920 Prospect Rd., Knoxville, TN 37920 on Sunday, November 18, 2018 at 1:00PM for a graveside service. Following the graveside, the family will receive friends at Graystone Presbyterian Church, 139 S. Woodlawn Pike, Knoxville, TN 37920 from 2:30pm until 4:00pm. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 4:00pm with Rev. Dr. Leslie D. Rust and Rev. Mark Knisley officiating. Memorials may be made to Graystone Presbyterian Church or the charity of your choice. Condolences may be offered at www.berryfuneralhome.com