Fred Lawrence Clevenger

Fred Lawrence Clevenger, aged 80, passed away on Thursday, December 28, 2023, in Kingsport, Tennessee, where he had called home throughout his lifetime. He was born in 1943 to his late parents, A.B. Clevenger Sr. and Ortelle Jennings (Forrester), who were Kingsport natives.
Fred graduated from Ketron High School in the Class of 1962, where he thrived as a member of the football team. His passion for sports extended beyond high school as he went on to become a notable figure in his community. He served as the past president of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles and was a charter member of VFW Post 4933 auxiliary.
Fred's heart truly raced for the world of motorsports. He was a devoted race car enthusiast who, alongside his brothers and sons, owned and meticulously worked on numerous race cars. His racing journey took him to the tracks of Kingsport Speedway, Bristol Speedway, and Coeburn, leaving an indelible mark in the racing community. From 1973 to 1986, he also ran a Goodyear tire business with his sons, catering to race car drivers, including the legendary Dale Earnhardt.
Fred and his brothers also shared memorable times working at the Bristol Motor Speedway Drag Strip, forging cherished bonds through their mutual love for the sport.
While Fred may have appeared stoic on the surface, he was a fun-loving presence in the lives of those who knew him. He possessed a sharp wit and was known for his straightforward demeanor. Above all, he held an enduring love for his family, with a special affection for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Fred is preceded in death by his brother, Elmo; and his first wife and the mother of his children, Patricia Moffitt Clevenger.
He is survived by his sons, Mark and his wife Rhonda, Tim and his wife Penny, and Michael and his girlfriend Becky; along with his beloved grandchildren, Matthew, Kendra, Kristen, and Alison; his great-grandchildren, Judah, Kallie-Jane, Goodman Bernard Duke 4th, and twins Harlowe and Lillie, were the apple of his eye. Fred is also survived by his brother, A.B. Clevenger Jr., and his wife, Debbie, as well as several nieces and nephews.
A visitation for family and friends will be held at Trinity Memorial on Saturday, January 6th, 2024, from noon until 2:00 pm, offering an opportunity to remember and honor the life of Fred L. Clevenger.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to VFW Auxillary Post 4933.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) has been entrusted with the privilege of serving the Clevenger family during this difficult time.