Frederick Moffatt Obituary

Seymour - Frederick ("Fred") Moffatt peacefully passed away July 23, 2025 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Fred was 86 years old. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Anne, his two sons Jonathan (Daphne Moffatt) of Knoxville and Lee (Karen Moffatt) of Marietta, GA, and his grandson Patrick Moffatt. Fred attended the Kent School in Connecticut, Colby College (B.A.), Arizona State University, (M.F.A.). and the University of Chicago, (Ph.D in Art History). Fred was enlisted in the United States Army reserves from 1961-1967. In his twenties, Fred worked as a newspaper reporter and a painter, studying at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture. After he received a Ph.D in Art History, Fred accepted a job at the University of Tennessee in the Art History department and Fred and Anne moved to Knoxville. Fred taught Art History courses, including a freshman lecture class, from 1969-2005. His professional interests included late nineteenth century American painters. Fred contributed numerous scholarly articles about art history. His publications included a chapter on art for the Heart of the Valley and the books Errant Bronzes (Associated University Presses, Inc. 1998), The Life, Art, and Times of Joseph Delaney (UT Press, 2009); and Paintbrush for Hire: The Travels of James and Emma Cameron, 1840-1900 (UT Press, 2018). In 2023, he was honored by the Knoxville History Project for his significant contributions to Knoxville History.

(Special thanks to Jack Neely). Fred was an avid runner who competed in various marathons including the Boston Marathon. He was a fan of classical music and would often be found at performances of the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra and the Knoxville Community Band. Fred will always be remembered by his friends for his kindness and dry wit. His numerous past students will always remember the exactness in English and punctuation that he required in essays! A life well lived. Condolences may be shared at www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com. Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000 is helping the family at this time.