Leffery Holden Lail

Leffrey Holden Lail, surrounded by his friends and family, passed away peacefully on February 14th, 2023. Having courageously fought a 6 year battle with ALS, he left this world at the age of 75. He is preceded in death by his parents John Leffrey and Mary Leona (Bryant) Lail, sister Joyce Carol "Joy" Lail, and brother John Isom Lail. Holden is survived by his wife Rhonda Godfrey Lail, daughter Beth (Trey) Hallman, daughter Alex (Todd) Sangid, and son Eddie (Traci) Lail. He is a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren: Courtney, Hank, Peyton, and Luke Hallman, Sadee and Brock Sangid, Rory Shaw, Callaway Glower, and Charlie Lail. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, lifelong friends, and caregivers.

In 1965, Holden graduated from Everett High School. He went on to attend the University of Tennessee where he obtained a bachelor's degree in Education. Holden then began his career with Blount County Schools in 1969. Over his 30-year career, he served as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal at many schools across Blount County. His last post was Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at William Blount High School. Working with and for the children of Blount County was one of his most satisfying achievements. Many former students visited him during his illness to express their gratitude for his impact on their lives. The positive role he had on several generations will live on to enrich the lives of many more.

During his tenure with Blount County Schools, Mr Lail coached several sports teams to county championships. He was proud of every student he coached over those many years and especially proud of those accomplishments. Having success in coaching led him to serve as elementary basketball tournament director for several years.

As an administrator, Mr Lail was one of the first principals in the county to obtain credentials as a Career Level III administrator. Later, he went on to serve as a Career Ladder Evaluator for the State of Tennessee. After retiring from BCS, he worked for the Exemplary Education Program for the State. In addition, he spent summers working at Princeton University as an evaluator of teacher and principal assessments.

Holden was a lifelong member of the Republican Party. He served the people of Blount County as Commissioner of the 6th District. Ever the politician, he loved that experience. He especially loved the ability to officiate weddings.

Throughout his life, Holden had a love of many activities. He loved to travel. While completing one of his biggest bucket list items, he was able to visit all 50 states. Other things at the top of the list were golf (which he was convinced was a Scottish curse word), fishing, and JFG coffee.

Mr Lail was a member of Laurel Bank Baptist Church. It was there he gave his life to Christ. He was an active member and always ready to volunteer for activities. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends. However, we are assured by the Lord Almighty that we will be reunited once again in Heaven.

The family will receive friends from 4:00–7:00 PM, Friday, February 17, 2023, at McCammon-Ammons-Click Funeral Home and the funeral will follow at 7:00 PM with Dr. Charles Bailey and Dr. Matthew Young officiating. Family and friends will meet at 10:00 AM, Saturday at Laurel Bank Baptist Church Cemetery for the burial.

In lieu of flowers, vote Republican. Keep Blount County Conservative.