Charles "Charlie" Maxwell Severance

Charles Maxwell “Charlie” Severance passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the age of 86.  Charlie was born on September 17, 1939, to Don and Florence Severance in Fountain City, Tennessee, where he spent most of his life.  After graduating from Central High School, Charlie attended the University of Tennessee on a football scholarship. He married Phyllis Bales, started a family, and became deeply involved in the Fountain City community.  Charlie served for many years on the Fountain City Recreation Commission. His commitment to public service extended to state government, where he served as a Tennessee State Representative to the General Assembly and Assistant Commissioner of State Parks for the Department of Conservation and Environment.  Charlie was honored by Central High School as a member of the Wall of Fame. He was also inducted into the Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame. He was perhaps, best known for his participation in “The Stop”, a legendary play in UT football history.  Charlie was an avid UT fan and, with Phyllis, could always be found cheering on the Volunteers. A gifted storyteller and quick with a joke, he was the life of the party. A devoted father, grandfather, husband, and friend, his larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed.  Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Florence Severance, and his brother, Lieutenant Colonel Donald Marcus Severance, Jr.  He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Phyllis Bales Severance; his sons, Chuck Severance (Kim), Marcus Severance (Jamie), and Michael Severance (Robin); his grandsons, Connor Sepesi (Dezirae) and Garrett Sepesi, Michael Christian and Gabriel Severance, Hagan Severance (Katie), Ben Severance, and Wyatt Severance. And great-grandchildren, Carter and Collins Severance and Walker Sepesi. and his brother, Bill Severance (Peggy).  The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Fountain City Church, 2801 Holbrook Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. A service will be held at 5:00 p.m., with Pastor Donny Wadley officiating.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sacred Ground Hospice House 1120 Dry Gap Pike, Knoxville, TN 37918 or the Pat Summitt Alzheimer’s Foundation.  Condodlences may be expressed at www.mynattfh.com.