Kenneth Wallace

Kenneth "Ken" Marshall Wallace, 56, of Cleveland, Tennessee went to be with the Lord early Tuesday morning, September 17, 2024. He was a true sacrificial servant and loved his God, his family, his friends, his church, and his community so very well.

Ken was born in Cleveland, Tennessee on September 9, 1968, and was the second child of Gary and Suzanne Wallace. He grew up in Cleveland and attended Bradley County High School. Ken loved playing high school football and enjoyed being an active member in the youth group at First Baptist Church Cleveland. After graduating in 1986, he attended Tennessee Technological University and earned a BS degree in Business Management. He then began a long and successful career at Farm Bureau Insurance Company working as a claims adjuster. On August 3, 1991, Ken married the love of his life, Sharon Renae Melton. They chose to settle down in Cleveland, where they raised their two sons, Garrett and Greyson. Ken continued to be active in sports alongside his sons by serving as a coach on several Little League teams and then as a huge supporter, assistant, and "go to guy" for the Walker Valley High School football team. He also served First Baptist Church Cleveland as a Bible study teacher for youth, Camp Cherokee leader and counselor, and active deacon. He was passionate about serving the Lord, both locally and abroad, as he did in Egypt. Ken always had open arms and a huge heart, never hesitating to help anyone in need. He was the "Master BBQ'er" and ice cream maker at family and friend gatherings, as well as an incredibly entertaining videographer for family events. Ken enjoyed walking and talking with friends and spending time boating on the river. Ken's love for Jesus was evident in the way he lived his life every day as he prioritized faith, family, and friends.

Ken was preceded in death by his grandparents: Sue and Jake Newman and Virginia and Marshall Wallace; and by his sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Russ Musgrove.

He is survived by his beautiful wife of 33 years, Sharon Renae; sons, Garrett and his wife, Rachel, and Greyson; parents, Gary and Suzanne Wallace; sister, Amanda Gilbert and her husband, Duane; several in-laws; and much loved nieces and nephews.

The Wallace family will receive friends from 2 to 4 PM on Sunday, September 22, in the worship center of First Baptist Church Cleveland, Tennessee. This will be followed by a Celebration of Life service in the worship center and an After Party in the chapel, as family and friends celebrate Ken's life and legacy.

Pallbearers will be Eric Houston, Wes Smith, David Clark, Shane Clark, Melvin Elder, Shane Gibson, Nathan Ellis, Sam Beary, Jake Musgrove, and Brent Musgrove. Honorary Pallbearers will incluede the Deacon body of First Baptist Church Cleveland. A private family graveside service will be held on Monday, September 23, at the Edgemon Cemetery in Ten Mile, Tennessee. Memorial contributions may be made to the Camp Cherokee youth scholarship fund at First Baptist Church Cleveland, Tennessee.