An early-morning fire completely destroyed a mobile home on Tuesday, Dec.23. The Gatlinburg Fire Department responded to the fire at 4336 Manis Hollow Road, in Sevier County, shortly after 9 a.m. “The structure was fully engulfed with fire upon arrival,” Chief Gary West said. He added, “We fought the fire for more than an hour.”
The mobile home, owned by Glenn and Betty Ownby, was a total loss West said.
Living with the Ownby’s were four other adult family members and a four-month-old child.
Glenda Price, a daughter of Glenn and Betty Ownby, said “It burned to the ground. They lost everything. They barely got out with just their pajamas on.” Price said her parents did not have insurance.
Glenn Ownby is an uncle to Jeff Ownby, former mayor of Gatlin-burg, and local businessman.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Chief West said, “We are pretty sure it was an accident.” Wayne Ownby, one of Glenn and Betty’s sons, believes the fire was started by a short in a heater.
Gatlinburg Fire Department dispatched 25 firefighters. Back-up units from Pittman Center and Pigeon Forge assisted.
Anyone wishing to donate clothing and other necessary items to the family may call Glenda Price at 436-7368 or Della Easton at 654-2317. Monetary donations may be made at any Mountain National Bank location to the Ownby Family Fund Account. Donations may also be made at Grace Baptist Church, where Wayne Ownby is pastor. The phone number there is 453-0522.

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