Leonard Nixon
Leonard Acheson Nixon, adoring husband, sweet daddy, grandfather, son, and friend, passed away September 5, 2018.
He was born in Chattanooga on September 18, 1926, to Robert Rehrer Nixon and Amy Acheson (deceased), and was just days short of 92.
He was also preceded in death by his siblings: Robert Rehrer Nixon Jr., Elizabeth Nixon Sewell, and Amy Nixon Davies.
Leonard, fondly known as Curly because he had no hair, left behind a grateful family who will miss him terribly - children, Nancy (Joe) Parrott of Knoxville, David (Laurey) Nixon, and Amy (Mike Giudici) from Atlanta; grandchildren: Will (Rachel) Parrott and John (Amanda) Parrott, Christina (Austin) Bone, Caroline Nixon, Hailey, and Drew Giudici. Great grandchildren- Christian Anderson, and Vincent Parrott. Curly is now reunited in heaven with the love of his life, Ruth, who celebrates his arrival.
Leonard attended McCallie School and graduated from Washington and Lee University. He was a retired World War II Navy veteran. Starting a heavy equipment business in Knoxville, the company grew to have four Tennessee offices before closing in 1981. He began two other companies – Southeastern Machinery and Roadtec. Professionally, Leonard was actively involved in AED (Associated Equipment Distributors), rising to become first vice president. He was a founding member of FACTS (Facts about Coal in Tennessee).
Ruth and Leonard spent 15 years of retirement in Sandestin where they enjoyed golfing, gardening and making new friends. He continued these loves on Lookout Mountain as well. Leonard played an active role in becoming a “gentleman farmer” in Dade County, at the family’s farm, working with the family quarries, and developing Brown Acres Golf course.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Church of the Good Shepherd on Lookout Mountain on Monday, Sept. 10, at 3 p.m. with a reception following in the reception hall. Memorials can be made to the church.
Special thanks to the loving care of Renie Coulter and Ellie Wallin whose faithful care made Curly’s and Ruth’s life rich and happy.
Arrangements are by Wann Funeral and Cremation Center, 4000 Tennessee Ave., Chattanooga, Tn.37409.