John W. Sumpter

John W. Sumpter age 92 of Maryville passed away Sunday, September 9, 2018 at University of Tennessee Medical Center. John was born and raised in Cumberland, KY. At age 17 he voluntarily joined the US Navy. He was sent to the South Pacific during World War II where he served our country on the USS Texas as a radio operator. Upon discharge from the Navy, John attended school in Tulsa, OK and received an electronics certification. He obtained a job at K-25 in Oak Ridge where he worked for 39 years. There he met, Edith Byerley. During his younger years he was a member of the 134th Refueling Group at McGhee Tyson Air Base where he served for 20 years. He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, avid sports fan, and loved to travel. Survivors include: Wife of 64 years, Edith Sumpter; Daughters, Deborah Rocco, Janet West & husband John, Dena Eakins & husband Phil, Lisa Anderson & husband Jimmy; Son, Sherrod “Buz” Sumpter & wife Lisa; Grandchildren, Wesley (Sarah) Anderson, Tommie Eakins, Cassie (Shannon) Mabe, Melissa (Bryan) White, Mallory (Derek) Wisong, Jed (Kacie) West, Aaron Eakins, Chris (Debbie) Todd, Becky (Jeff) Jones, David (Tracie) Todd, Jeff (Minnie) Todd, Julie (James) Adams; 8 Great-Grandchildren. Family and friends will assemble for a private graveside service and interment Wednesday, September 12, 2018 at Grandview Cemetery with Rev. Doug Simmons officiating. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of John W. Sumpter please visit our Sympathy Store.