Joseph Maclin Wright

After a long and well-lived life, Joseph Maclin Wright passed away at the age of 86 in Knoxville, TN on July 2, 2021. Joe was born in Bulls Gap, Tennessee on October 22, 1934, to Charles and Lula Wright. He graduated from Cleveland High School in Cleveland, Tn. and went on to attend and graduate from Carson Newman College in Jefferson City, TN in 1958. While there, he received his degree in Physical Education and was a three-year letterman in football. The day after college graduation he married his college sweetheart, Jacqueline Cornett Wright. Two weeks later, Joe began his service in the United States Air Force Reserves and Army National Guard from 1958-1964. After college graduation Joe had a brief career as a high school football and basketball coach in Toccoa, GA and Westminster, SC. Following his coaching career, he was employed by Chattanooga Glass Company, where he worked in many capacities, culminating as Vice President of Sales. Although it required many families moves to different locations, Joe enjoyed his work in this industry and made many lifelong friends along the way. Following his time with the Chattanooga Glass Company, he was co-owner of both Southeastern Electric in Chattanooga, TN and Collegedale Caseworks in Collegedale, TN. We cherish our memories of Joe, his generosity, his encouraging and supportive presence, and his captivating stories. He always kept everyone laughing and well-entertained. Joe valued his family and was always present at every family gathering. He was a loving and dependable father and good friend to those who knew him. He had a loving heart and expressed it in many ways. One way he revealed it was through his love of dogs, who were always in his life. They were constantly by his side, in his garage, or by his table, where he stealthily offered forbidden food. Joe was also passionate about antique cars and enjoyed restoring and collecting them. He had a large enviable collection that he treasured for many years. Joe is survived by Jacqueline Wright, (wife of 36 years) sons Joseph Allen Wright (Donna) and Jeffrey Todd Wright (Honour), daughter Jeanna Renee Wright (Susan), three grandchildren, Laura Wright Moore (granddaughter) (Curtis), Jacob Wright, (grandson) (Stephanie), Justin Wright (grandson) (Emilee), four nieces (Regina Nutter, Karen Bass, Kristi Hommell and Beth Smith) and one nephew (Chuck Wright). Family and friends will gather for a graveside service on Saturday, July 10 at 2:00pm, McKinney Cemetery on 112 Stamp Street, Rogersville, TN. 37857. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Joseph Maclin Wright please visit our Sympathy Store.