Glenn Alven "Al" Grubb

Glenn Alven “Al” Grubb, Jr., age 73, born November 23, 1949, passed away peacefully in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit at University of Tennessee Medical Center June 13, 2023, surrounded by loving family members. As a young boy Al confessed his faith in Jesus Christ, praying alongside his parents in their family home in Binfield, Tennessee. Tuesday morning at sunrise he confidently and courageously stepped into the presence of his Savior and Lord Jesus Christ.

Al is preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Glenn and Kathleen Grubb, and by his first wife, Darlene Lopasser Grubb. He is survived by his wife, Debbie Hayes Grubb; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Phillip and Donna Hayes; daughter, Bethany (Chad) Riddle; son, Chris (Annette) Grubb; step-daughters Amy (Larry) Hannan and Becky May; grandchildren, Brentley Riddle, Ansley Riddle, Foster Grubb, Katie Grubb, Theodore Grubb, Parker Grubb, and Jonah Grubb; step-grandsons Harrison and Carter Hannan; step-granddaughter Knox Ford; sister Faye Grubb; brothers Walter (Diane) Grubb, Mark (Alisa) Grubb, and Stan Grubb; brother-in-law Gary (Michelle) Hayes; former brother-in-law Butch (Terry) Lopasser of Fair Hope, AL; and a host of lifelong friends.

Al was an active member of Madison Avenue Baptist Church where he served as deacon, trustee, and in a variety of leadership roles on various teams and committees over the years.  He enjoyed a particularly close relationship with the adult Sunday School class that he felt called to teach for over fifty years, fostering and nurturing a deep sense of community among the members. Al’s daily walk with the Lord was a testimony to those who knew him.  He demonstrated his belief in the saving grace of Jesus Christ by following Christ’s example as a servant leader.

Al attended Everett High School prior to graduating from Turlock High School in Turlock, California.  He attended Stanislaus State College in Turlock before transferring to and earning his bachelor’s degree from Carson Newman College in Jefferson City, Tennessee.  He held graduate certifications in banking from Louisiana State University.

His work experience included service with Mac’s Used Cars and Parts and Park National Bank prior to accepting a position with Citizen’s Bank of Blount County where he enjoyed a 44-year career.  Al retired as Senior Executive Vice-President but continued his relationship with CBBC as a member of the Board of Directors.  Among his civic and charitable duties were service and leadership roles in Alcoa Kiwanis Club, United Way of Blount County, Blount County Education Foundation, and Leadership Blount.

A passionate outdoorsman, Al took great pride in mentoring family members and others in fishing and hunting.  In each person he cultivated sincere appreciation for animal life in the natural world.  Al was enthusiastic about vacationing with his loved ones, and eagerly planned and prepared for picnics and other family gatherings in the mountains.

Al was known as a skilled strategist who possessed a keen understanding of the big picture.  He readily embraced challenges and was always looking for ways to make things better or more efficient. He paid attention to details and was gifted in discernment of people and situations.

Always the consummate teacher, he would not miss an opportunity to drive a lesson home with clichés that became familiar to those blessed to be within his sphere of influence:

            It’s all about balance.

            Remember who you are.

            It’s just part of it.

            In this life and the one hereafter, it’s all about who you know.

            That’s as good a place as any. (when asked about where to fish or hunt)

Whenever you can.  (when asked about the best time to go fishing)

It is what it is.

Those who knew him well described him as analytical, authentic, consistent, faithful, humble, persistent, thorough, wise, welcoming, and a man of integrity.

Please bring a memory on a card to share with the family about Al, there will be a basket provided at the church. Family and friends will assemble at 9:00 AM for Interment Friday, June 16, 2023 at Grandview Pavilion. Family and friends will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 PM Friday, June 16, 2023 at Madison Avenue Baptist Church. Funeral Service will follow at 7:00 PM with Rev. Chris Grubb and Dr. Mark Grubb officiating. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com