William Stewart Denton Jr.
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William (Bill) Stewart Denton Jr., went to be with the Lord on May 23, 2022. Bill was born in Frankfort, KY on April 2, 1941 and was raised in Knoxville, TN where he graduated from Knoxville East High School. Bill then graduated from the University of Cincinnati School of Architecture and Planning in 1965 with a Master of Science degree in Architecture, was included on the Dean's List from 1963-1965 and was a member of Acacia Fraternity. Although Bill may be known by many as the designer of the iconic Sunsphere for the 1982 World's Fair, those closest to him knew him for his love of Jesus, his family, dogs, and cars. The Denton family were active members of St. James Episcopal Church since 1944. Bill never met a stranger and always went out of his way to help others. Bill began practicing architecture under well know architect Hubert Bebb in Gatlinburg and Morristown, later becoming president of Community Tectonics before starting his own firm in 1983. During his career, Bill was involved in many diverse projects to include the design of over 50 public schools, churches, over 25,000 hotel rooms, professional buildings and master planning projects ranging from regional shopping and business centers to large scale residential and resort developments. Notable career accomplishments include: design and development leadership of the Sunsphere for the 1982 World's Fair, Principle architect of Walter's State Community College which was the first TN college campus developed from a Master Plan, three consecutive TN School of the Year award winning buildings, and the first solar facility in East TN. Bill was preceded in death by his father, William S. Denton Sr and mother, Jeanne Denton. Bill is survived by his wife Denise Wilie Denton, three sons and their wives, Randy and Kim, Billy and Robin, Case and Crystal, and four grandchildren, Parker and wife Ashley, Lillie, Conley, and CJ. The Family will receive friends on June 1 from 4PM-6PM with a memorial service to follow at First Baptist Church of Pigeon Forge, 3290 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Pigeon Forge in his honor. Online condolences can be made at www.atchleyfuneralhome.com.