William "Tom" Daughtrey

William "Tom" Daughtrey obituary, Knoxville, TN

William "Tom" Daughtrey

William Daughtrey Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Rose Funeral & Cremation - Mann on Dec. 15, 2023.

Publish in a newspaper

William "Tom" Daughtrey, known for his warmth, humor and zest for life, lost his battle with cancer on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at age, 72 in Knoxville. Tom had a strong dedication to service and a profound love for his friends, family, and community. Born in Soddy Daisy, Tennessee, he was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Belle Correll Daughtrey, and siblings, Sara Lou Shetter, Nick, Carolyn and Jimmy Daughtrey.
Tom was a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, where he met his future wife, and later attained an executive MBA from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. After a long career in managing projects for nuclear cleanup sites, Tom retired in 2019 from CNS in Oak Ridge. Tom's expertise, hard work and sociable nature earned him the respect and affection of his peers.
Beyond his professional achievements, Tom demonstrated his leadership and service commitment through Rotary. He served as club president both in Columbus Indiana and more recently in the local Bearden club. The Bearden club named him "Rotarian of the year" twice for his dedication and impact.
Tom was an avid boater where his love for the water began as a teenager. He also enjoyed the challenge of golfing, fly fishing and woodworking. His support and enthusiasm for the Tennessee VOLS was infectious.
Whether through school, work, hobbies or Rotary, his outgoing nature, friendly demeanor, and adventurous spirit endeared him to all who knew him.
Tom's greatest source of pride and joy was his family. He shared 48 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Patty Sergeant Daughtrey. Together they raised two children who survive him, including son Joe Daughtrey and his wife Melanie, daughter Kati Daughtrey Neff and her husband Joe. His legacy extends further through his cherished grandchildren: Sophia and Andrew Daughtrey, as well as Will, Josie, and Carolyn Neff, who will continue to carry his spirit forward.
A celebration of Tom's life will take place on Friday, December 29, at 11:00 am at Rose Funeral & Cremation - Mann. Following the service, the family will welcome friends until 1:30 pm to share memories and honor Tom's life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be directed to the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International or to a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made at www.rosefuneraltn.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign William Daughtrey's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

December 27, 2023

David Painter posted to the memorial.

December 19, 2023

Jeffrey L. Guffey posted to the memorial.

December 15, 2023

Rose Funeral & Cremation - Mann posted an obituary.

2 Entries

David Painter

December 27, 2023

Patty and family,
Thank you for sharing Tom (Tommy D) with us. Our friendship began when he and his family relocated to Ohio in the late 1980's and continued in Tennessee when I relocated there through 2016. I spent many hours with Tom golfing at outings, enjoying drinks with friends, and just talking about life and family. Tom's conversation usually included a saying like, "Now that makes me happier than a groundhog in soft dirt." I loved Tom. There is no doubt that Tom heard the words, "Enter in good and faithful servant" upon his arrival in Heaven.

Jeffrey L. Guffey

December 19, 2023

I knew and was friends with Tom for over 40+ years. We worked together at times, went through grad school together and shared lots of good friends. We played golf, which he usually won (though he also usually also kept score?); we told lots of jokes and LONG stories (which friends usually acknowledged by napping through most); and, shared lots of meals and drinks (for which Tommy rarely paid cause he couldn't quite seem to reach his wallet).
He was a good friend. He was a kind and gentle man, and I shall miss him greatly. I wish All the Best to Patty and all of the family. Thanks for letting me spend time with Tom.

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

Rose Funeral & Cremation - Mann

6200 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919

Make a Donation
in William Daughtrey's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor William Daughtrey's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign William Daughtrey's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

December 27, 2023

David Painter posted to the memorial.

December 19, 2023

Jeffrey L. Guffey posted to the memorial.

December 15, 2023

Rose Funeral & Cremation - Mann posted an obituary.