Raleigh Wynn Sr.

1924 - 2017

Raleigh Wynn, Sr. departed this life on April 30, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. He was born the fourth child to the late Alexander, Sr. and Essie (Bullard) Wynn on February 13, 1924. “Big Wynn” or “Coach” as many fondly referred to him, led a long life of service to others. As a mentor and friend to many of Knoxville’s youth, he taught that excellence in education and sports combined was a path to a successful life, many of whom accomplished just that! Big Wynn led by example; and his work in the community became a testimony. His dedication to education and sports began as a student at Austin High School where he played football. He graduated AHS in 1942 and later entered Clark College (Atlanta, GA), again playing football before being drafted into the service in 1943. Wynn, Sr. served with the 555th Battalion Combat Q.M. Corp subsequently became wounded and received a purple heart. While in the service, he played football with the E.T.O. All Stars, named to the All Service Team in 1945. Wynn, Sr. was one of five Black players to play in the all-star game in Paris, France in January 1946 where he was named “Outstanding Lineman.” Continuing his love of education and sports, he attended Tennessee State University and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree. He was the captain of the football team (1948-1949) and one of the most versatile linemen to ever play at TSU. Wynn, Sr. played in the Canadian League in 1950 as well. His education spanned from Tennessee to New York, graduating from University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a Master’s degree and furthering his studies at New York University of Physical Education. Raleigh Wynn, Sr. was a distinguished man. He became an educator and coach showing youth there’s always a better path if you believe in yourself. Big Wynn coached at Knoxville College, East High School and Austin East High School where he served as Head Coach and Athletic Director. While at Austin East he was an Assistant Principal. Coach left Austin East and became Principal of Park Junior High School, as an administrator, he continued to serve in positions as Building Administrator at Knoxville Adult Center and later Principal at Van Gilder Occupational Center from where he retired. Wynn, Sr. served as a Knoxville City Councilman. He had numerous affiliations with prominent organizations and holding positions in many of them. He was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, James E. Derrick Elks Lodge 1667, former board of directors’ member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Commander, VFW Post 6019, the Sports Trail Century Club, National Football Hall of Fame Alumni to name a few. Along with the many roles he had, Wynn, Sr. was a Deacon at Mount Zion Baptist Church. He served as president of the Men’s Brotherhood at the church where to a basketball court “WYNN’S COURT” was erected in his honor. Raleigh, Sr. was preceded in death by wife, Edna Benn- Wynn; son, Michael Jerome; brothers, Eddie, William “Whitt”, Robert “RL” and Alexander Jr. “June” Wynn; sisters, Sarah Wynn and Essie Smith; nephew, Darren Allen; and beloved cousins who were more like a brother and a sister, Jefferson Davis, Jr. and Nola Martin Atkins. He leaves to mourn his passing: son, Raleigh Wynn, Jr.; daughter, Sheri Carter; grandchildren: Cheri Archer, Trina Wynn, Stacey Williams, Tamara Wynn, Christopher Wynn, Peter Carter, Rhonda Carter, Meagen Wynn and Daryl Wynn; nine great grandchildren: two great great grandchildren; sister Mary Ruth Reed; several nieces and nephews; two sisters-in-law: Virginia Wynn and Ruth Benn; and a multitude of cousins, devoted friends and colleagues. Sunday, May 7, 2017, the body will lie in state from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Mount Zion Baptist Church at 2714 Brooks Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37914. Monday, May 8, 2017, the family will receive friends from 10 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with funeral to follow at Mount Zion Baptist Church. Reverend Dr. Johnnie Skinner, Sr. officiating. Entombment will immediately follow at Sherwood Memorial Gardens, Alcoa, TN where a white dove release will conclude the service. Flowers may be delivered to the church the morning of the service. Professional arrangements entrusted to Patton Funeral Home, Brian L. Buckmon, LFD 1-800-824-8283 or www.pattonfuneralhome1962.com