Clayton Mack "Ernie" Pyle

Clayton Mack “Ernie” Pyle left this world for his heavenly home on January 2, 2024. He was born on March 27, 1932, to Alvis Walter and Mamie (nee Reynolds) Pyle. He grew up in Fountain City, was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, and served in the Korean War. He returned to civilian life as an air traffic control specialist with the Federal Aviation Administration where he retired after 34 years.

His greatest joy in life was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 62 years, Mary Jane, who preceded him in death. Also, preceding Ernie in death were sister and brother-in-law Beulah and Harvey Rench, sister and brother-in-law Sandy and Al Foster, brother and sister-in-law Alvis and Betty Pyle, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Bernard and Helen Swart, and brother-in-law Joe Swart.

Ernie was a caring father to his three sons and was very proud of their accomplishments and the men they became. To his grandchildren, “Gagoo” was a wonderful grandfather who never missed an opportunity to make them feel loved and supported. Later in life, nothing brightened his day more than a visit from his great grandchildren. Spending time with loved ones and making memories was always a top priority.

In addition to his family, Ernie loved the University of Tennessee. He was a loyal UT football fan and always cheered for the VOLS! He also enjoyed the Great Smoky Mountains, music, and travel. In his early years, Ernie traveled courtesy of Uncle Sam. Later, he enjoyed picking his own destinations and traveling a little closer to home. To those who knew him best, his legacy will always be his loving family who will continue to share what they learned from his work ethic, his faith, and his patriotism.

Survivors include: son John Pyle and Melody McCord, son Steve & Cynthia Pyle, and son Jeff & Lori Pyle; grandchildren: Alexandria & Todd Sangid, Adam Pyle, Emilee & Seth Osborne, Keller Pyle, Zackary Pyle, and Mackenzie & Kalep Conway; great-grandchildren: Sadee, Rory, Brock, Callaway, and Olivia; brother and sister-in laws: Pat & Lois Swart, and Diane Swart; numerous nieces and nephews; special friends, Charles & Harriet Irwin, Kathy Porter, Rhonda Lail, and Bret Shaw.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff of Deane Hill Place and Caris Hospice for their tremendous support and loving care. Ernie was very happy during his stay because of their kindness.

Clayton Mack “Ernie” Pyle will be laid to rest in the East Tennessee Veteran’s cemetery after a family service in the Chapel on Monday, January 8, 2024. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Tennessee Chapter of the Alzheimer Association.