News Summary
Memorial services held for Dr. Fred Bedelle Jr., a significant figure in East Tennessee education, celebrated his 50+ years of dedication to public schools.
Knoxville, Tennessee – Dr. Fred Bedelle Jr. Remembered as a Pillar of Education
Funeral services for Dr. Fred Bedelle Jr. Ed.D. were held on July 6, 2025, commemorating his significant contributions to public education in East Tennessee over a career that spanned more than 50 years. Dr. Bedelle is most notably recognized as the last superintendent of Knoxville City Schools prior to its merger with Knox County Schools in 1987.
His role in education extended beyond his tenure as superintendent. Following the merger, Dr. Bedelle remained an influential figure in the local educational landscape as an administrative assistant at Knox County Schools. He also led the graduate program for educators at Lincoln Memorial University (LMU), demonstrating his ongoing commitment to teacher training and development. Among his innovative initiatives was a program designed to bring LMU teachers into local schools for after-hours classes, aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for students.
Dr. Bedelle played a critical role in developing a desegregation plan for Knoxville City Schools that successfully navigated legal challenges. This plan was instrumental in enabling Knoxville to avoid mandated school busing during the 1960s, showcasing his capacity for leadership and dedication to creating equitable educational environments.
Notable Achievements
Dr. Bedelle’s impact on education was not only felt locally but also reflected in his authorship of the book “With All Deliberate Speed,” published in 2012, which features a foreword by former U.S. Representative John J. Duncan Jr. His insights into educational policy and practices have left a lasting imprint on the field.
Originally from Woodstock, Georgia, Dr. Bedelle was born to Era Mae and Fred Bedelle Sr. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Frieda Bedelle Brown. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Norma Bedelle, along with daughter Donna Folkner and son-in-law Jeff Brown. Dr. Bedelle also leaves behind grandchildren Andrew Folkner, Kathryn Odom, Aubrey Brown, and Mack Brown, as well as great-grandchildren Henry Folkner, Benjamin Folkner, and Leah Odom.
A Life Devoted to Education and Family
A proud veteran of the 101st Airborne during the Korean Conflict, Dr. Bedelle dedicated his life to public education. He retired as the final superintendent of Knoxville City Schools and later served as Dean Emeritus of the Carter and Moyer College of Education at LMU. Throughout his career, he emphasized the importance of public education and the role of teaching life lessons beyond the classroom.
After retiring from formal education roles, Dr. Bedelle pursued various hobbies, which included woodworking, beekeeping, flats fishing, and writing. He remained actively involved in his grandchildren’s lives, often attending their games and performances to show support.
Memorial Services
Friends and family gathered for a visitation prior to the funeral service at Berry Highland West Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, it was suggested that donations be made in Dr. Bedelle’s honor to Mission of Hope or a charity of choice. His enduring legacy in the field of education will be remembered by many and continues to inspire future generations of educators.
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Additional Resources
- Knox TN Today: Fred Bedelle – Education Leader
- Dignity Memorial: Fred Bedelle Jr.
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- Google Search: Knoxville City Schools
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
