WILLIAMS, LEON EUGENE (GENE) - age 78 of Knoxville passed away at home on Saturday, April 19, 2014, in the arms of his loving family straight into the arms of his loving Savior. Gene was a graduate of Central High School and served his country as a military policeman in the Army. After military service, he was a professional house painter by trade. Later he worked for Whittle Springs Golf Course in the pro shop from which he retired. Gene enjoyed life and loved his family and friends dearly. He enjoyed hunting and fishing whether on a river bank or on his deep sea fishing trips with his friends and family. Gene was a talented and accomplished artist and loved his volunteer work with the Golden Gloves program for youth, and was very honored when he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award for that service. Preceded in death by parents, Lenna and Willie Williams; brothers, Bob, Charlie, and Roy Williams; brother-in-law, Harry Newman. Survived by devoted and loving wife of 60 years, Shirley; loving daughter and son-in-law, Pamela and Steven Bailey; sister, Carolyn Newman; special companion, Dollie. Also survived by sisters-in-law and a host of nieces, nephews, and many other family and friends. Gene will be sadly missed until we are reunited again. Family and friends will meet 1:45 PM Wednesday, April 23, 2014, at Pollard Cemetery for a 2:00 PM graveside service. Military honors will be provided by the East TN Veteran Honor Guard. The family will receive friends 6:00-8:00 PM Tuesday at Bridges Funeral Home, 5430 Rutledge Pike, 865-523-4999. www.bridgesfuneralhome.com