As we march down the road to our 10th year, we’re looking back at moments that make this event so special.

We begin in 2017 ~ Our inaugural Grand Marshals were Sue and Art Clancy Jr., who were also celebrating their 61st wedding anniversary.

If you’re from Knoxville, you’ve more than likely heard of the Clancy’s. The family is deeply rooted in the community across generations. Their story is also woven into St. Patrick’s Parade history. Art’s father, Art Clancy Sr., served as Grand Marshal of the 1981 St. Patrick’s Parade. That day, he wore an iconic green jacket. In a touching tribute, Art Jr. proudly wore that very same green jacket as he led our first parade in 2017, bridging generations and honoring the Irish traditions that continue to inspire us today.

Adding to the emotion of the day, Mary Catherine Willard, one of Sue’s bridesmaids, joined them and their family on the Grand Marshal float. It was a beautiful reminder that lifelong friendships are one of life’s greatest blessings.

Sue and Art attended Knoxville Catholic High School together. They didn’t date then, but fate had other plans. After high school they reconnected and went on to build a remarkable life together.

Art was a patriarch of the Catholic community and a longtime optician. Sue, a former City employee, served as Special Events Director for Mayor Ashe’s Administration during the Worlds Fair Era. The couple shared six children, twelve grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and grand-nieces and nephews. Art passed away in July of 2022.

It’s stories like theirs that remind us that our parade is about much more than dancers, music and floats. It’s about family, friendship and community – the people who help keep Knoxville’s Irish spirit alive.

Be part of our tradition! Join us we march toward an unforgettable 10th anniversary. Save the date for Saturday, March 13, 2027.