Carson Goldman Brackett

Carson Goldman Brackett, 82, passed away on December 19, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee. Born on February 27, 1943, in Alcoa, Tennessee, Carson was a proud Tennessean who lived a life marked by hard work, independence, and a love of family.

Carson grew up in Alcoa, attending grade school and high school there, and played basketball, baseball, and football with great skill throughout his youth. He was an accomplished high school football player, known for his toughness on the field and his natural athleticism. He was described as a dependable player who gave everything he had on every down. He went on to coach youth football for several years for the Maryville Bears, passing on his knowledge, discipline, and love of the sport to the next generation. Carson continued playing summer league softball into adulthood, finding joy in the camaraderie and competition of the game.

After graduating from Alcoa High School in 1961, Carson enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. His four year tour included boot camp at Parris Island, specialized training to become a communications specialist, and then he was stationed in the Philippines. He was proud of his service in the Marine Corps and continued to wear and collect Marine memorabilia throughout his life, honoring the values of discipline, honor and loyalty.

Carson spent over three decades working as an electrician at The Aluminum Company of America, beginning his career there in April 1965 and continuing until his retirement in the early 2000’s. He was known for his strong work ethic and no nonsense approach, which earned him the respect of colleagues and co workers. His dedication to his work reflected the tenacity and discipline that defined much of his life.

A man of many interests, Carson was an avid reader with a lifelong love of books, particularly westerns, history, and science fiction. He also had a deep passion for NASCAR racing. He traveled across the South to attend races and never missed recording them at home—amassing many boxes of VHS tapes that he would rewatch with enthusiasm. His love for gardening was equally enduring; he took pride in growing a large garden and canning vegetables for many years. His yard was also a testament to his green thumb, filled with curated plants, shrubs, flowers, bird feeders, and even bee houses installed on his deck. Carson also enjoyed a good road trip, collecting shells and shark’s teeth while walking on the beach, and he never missed the chance to add to his extensive collection of watches and knives.

Carson’s personality was as complex as it was memorable. Although he could sometimes be a bear, if you were among those he liked or trusted, you’d find yourself on the receiving end of long conversations filled with wit, humor, and insight, as well as his fierce devotion.

Above all else, Carson valued his family deeply. He is survived by his son Scott Brackett (Cindy); daughters Jeanne McMurray (Brian) and Mary Elaine Anton (James); grandsons Jacob Brackett, Jason Anton, and Sam Anton; granddaughters Denise Brackett and Zoey Anton; sisters Debbie Keeble (David) and Susie Sullivan (Jim); and brothers Patrick Brackett (Andrea) and Michael Brackett (Ann), and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Carr Brackett; mother Goldia Brackett; brother Ronnie Brackett; and sister Sandy McCollumn (Eddie).

Carson Goldman “Sonny” Brackett will be remembered with love by the people who knew him and his absence will be deeply felt.