Walter Frederick Deneen III

Walter Frederick Deneen III, age 82 of Johnson City, Tennessee passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026. He was born on December 28, 1943, in Johnson City. Fred lived a life marked by devotion to family, faithful friendship, and a deep love for his children and grandchildren.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Jr. and Bennie Deneen, sister, Carol Deneen Malone, as well as his beloved wife, Marianne, whom he loved with all his heart. Their marriage was marked by enduring affection, loyalty, and partnership through the years.

He is survived by his sister, Patricia "Pat" Deneen Willoughby, children, Walter Deneen IV; Scott (Suzy) Deneen; Chris (Susan) Deneen; Josh (Hitomi) Deneen; and Ann-Marie (Dennis) Higdon. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, Taylor, Micah, Andrew, Ellen Anne, Emma, Elizabeth, Millie, Kaili, Tess, Leo, and Hattie, 4 great-grandchildren, Izzy, Josie, Luca, and Bowen, as well as extended family members, and many dear friends who will miss his steady presence and quiet spirit.

A devoted father, Fred faithfully invested himself in the lives of his children. Whether at sporting events, school activities, or everyday moments, he was a constant source of encouragement and support. His family remembers him as attentive, dependable, and deeply caring.

Fred held a Mining Degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute, class of 1967, and spent his career as CEO of Deneen Mica Company, Inc. until his retirement.

Fred had a lifelong love of learning and was rarely seen without a book in his hand. He was a 1961 graduate of Science Hill High School. He was a 2004 inductee of the JC Parks and Rec Wall of Fame and proud to play football for Science Hill under the leadership of Coach Kermit Tipton whom he considered to be a strong mentor in his youth. He also enjoyed running, skiing, skeet shooting, and cheering on the Atlanta Braves. Another love of his was riding horses, especially his horse Booger at Millercrest Stables.

Fred dedicated many summers to coaching Rotary Little League Baseball, where he positively influenced countless young athletes both on and off the field.

More than his accomplishments, Fred will be remembered for his quiet faithfulness to Christ, his love for his family, and the steady example he set for those around him. His life leaves a lasting legacy of love, commitment, and service that will continue through the many lives he has touched.

Active pall bearers Walter Deneen, Scott Deneen, Chris Deneen, Micah Deneen, Andrew Deneen, and Dennis Higdon. Honorary pall bearers will be Harry Gibson, Brian Dunkleburger, Emory Hale, David Willoughby, Gary Miller, John Sanders, and Bob Cooper.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at Morris-Baker Funeral Home. A funeral service will be immediately following with his sons, Scott and Chris, officiating. Fred will be laid to rest with his late wife in a private ceremony.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is serving the Deneen family. (423) 282-1521