Jack Garner

John Nathaniel (Jack) Garner, 80, of Athens and formerly of Madisonville passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Thursday, November 30, 2023.

Jack was an active member of First Baptist Church for 46 years, an educator for over 30 years (Ingleside, North City, E.K. Baker, and Mountain View). He loved his students, and they loved him. During the summer months he was an instructor at the Tennessee PGA Junior Golf Academy. After retirement he was the Director of Coordinated Charities.

Jack loved the game of golf. He began playing at the age of 16 at Madisonville Golf Course and continued playing until recent years. He lettered in golf for 2 years at Hiwassee College and was captain of the golf team at TWU where he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998.

Jack was a graduate of Madisonville High School, Hiwassee College, Tennessee Wesleyan College, and Tennessee Tech.

Preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Pearl Garner of Madisonville.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Patty Garner; son, Gant and Jennifer Garner of Canton GA; daughter, Amber Garner of Athens; granddaughter Bailey and Colin Mitchell of Richmond VA; grandson Nathan Garner of Ashburn VA, fiancé, Rachel Jones of Salt Lake City UT; great grandson, Jonathan Mitchell; brother-in-law, Brent and Patti Huskey of Gatlinburg, TN; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Special thanks to Amedysis Hospice, caregiver Jamie McKee, Deb Morse, Cindy Ferguson, AnnaLee Sikes, Buddy & Lisa Kinard, Sharon Wear, and other special friends and neighbors.

Memorial contributions can be made to Coordinated Charities, 109 Rocky Mount Road, Athens or First Baptist Church, Athens, 305 Ingleside Avenue.

The family will receive friends Sunday, December 3rd, from 1 – 2:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Athens with the funeral at 2:30 with Dr. Bill Henard and Rev. Gant Garner officiating.

Interment will be Monday, December 4th at 1 p.m. at McMinn Memory Gardens, Athens. Family and friends will assemble at the cemetery.