Joe Milton Middlebrooks

Joe Milton Middlebrooks obituary, Knoxville, TN

Joe Milton Middlebrooks

Joe Middlebrooks Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Unity Mortuary - Knoxville on Feb. 12, 2026.
Joe Milton Middlebrooks

Joe Milton Middlebrooks was born on August 2, 1955 in Senoia, Georgia, the first child born to the union of Narvie Middlebrooks and James Tate, Sr. He received his primary and secondary education in Knoxville, Tennessee, where he developed a lifelong love for sports. Joe was an avid sports enthusiast and a proud supporter of the University of Tennessee Volunteers. During his high school years, he showcased his athletic talent on the basketball court, earning the admiration of teammates and friends.

After completing high school in 1973, Joe attended Business College in Knoxville. He later built a long and dedicated career in the hotel industry, serving in respected establishments including the Hyatt Regency, Marriott, and the Cherokee Country Club in Knoxville. He also worked as a bartender, where his warm personality and strong work ethic made him a valued and trusted employee for many years.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Narvie Middlebrooks Anderson and James Tate, Sr.; and his niece; Demitra Narvell Middlebrooks.

He leaves to cherish his memory: Children-Jeremy Siler (Devoted Friend: Stephanie), Mandy Siler (Boyfriend: Tim), Bonus Son-Malik Moore (Mother: Darlene Siler), Angel Dyer (Mother: Donna Green). Siblings-Kim Middlebrooks; SGM (R) Roy "Darryl" Middlebrook (Wife: Shandia); and James E. Tate, Jr. (Wife: Stephanie). Grandchildren-MaKe'via Stewart-Bey (Husband: Cashawn), Jayshira Chandler (Devoted Friend: Ashia), Laveah White, and Bonus Granddaughter-Rashaya Gates. Nephews & Niece-LTC Darryl Middlebrook (Wife: Domonique), Kevin Middlebrook, and Tiffany Middlebrook. Grand-Nephew & Grand-Niece-Kindrick Middlebrooks and Emerson Middlebrook.

Joe also leaves behind a circle of close friends who stood by him throughout his life: Walter "Walt Lee" Jackson, Harry "Chilie Man" Upshaw, Curtis Askew, Charles "Me Too" Tate, Greg Tate, Debbie Parton, Floyd "Cowboy" Harris, Sean Gavin, Theresa Robinson, Kim Marable, and many more. His life was further enriched by a host of cousins and friends who loved him deeply.

Joe will be remembered for his loyalty, his humor, his love of sports, and the joy he brought to every gathering. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 14, 2026 from 12:30-1:00 p.m. with the Celebration of Life Service to begin at 1:00 p.m. at the Unity Mortuary Chapel.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Unity Mortuary. www.unitymortuary1979.com

Send flowers to the service of Joe Milton Middlebrooks

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

Unity Mortuary - Knoxville

1425 McCalla Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37915

Make a Donation
in Joe Middlebrooks's name

How to support Joe's loved ones
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
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

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 Joe Middlebrooks'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 Joe Middlebrooks's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?