Randall James Glaze

Randall James Glaze was born on October 10, 1949, and spent his childhood on the family farm in McMinn County. He later spent the majority of his time in Sweetwater, where he was a steady, familiar presence in the community he loved.

In 1967, Randall entered the United States Army, answering the call to serve his country during the Vietnam War. He was wounded in May 1968 and awarded the Purple Heart for his sacrifice. He was honorably discharged in 1969, and his military service was a defining part of his life-one he carried with pride and that shaped his character, values, and commitment to others.

In 1970, Randall married the love of his life, Sharon. They shared 55 years of marriage, remaining faithfully dedicated to one another until the end, building a life rooted in love, family, and steadfast commitment.

A man of many talents, Randall was known for his ability to build, fix, or figure out just about anything. Over the years, he held many jobs within the Sweetwater community, including owning and operating a local business. A true jack-of-all-trades, he was skilled in many areas and known as a hard worker whose work ethic was evident in everything he did. Alongside that work ethic, Randall was also known for his sense of humor and his love of cutting up, often pulling a good-natured practical joke and bringing laughter to those around him.

Randall was a dedicated member of the Sweetwater church of Christ, where he served faithfully in multiple capacities throughout his life. Beginning in the 1980s and continuing for two decades, he participated in multiple medical mission trips to Central America, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping others both near and far.

For more than twenty years, Randall was a devoted supporter of Sweetwater High School athletics. He served in a variety of roles, including videography, field maintenance, and announcing, contributing countless hours behind the scenes to support the Wildcats and the broader school community.

Above all, Randall was a family man. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Glaze; his daughter, Ginger Hooper; his son and daughter-in-law, Josh and Ashley Glaze; and his grandchildren, Katie (Casey) Widener, Jacob (Kassidi) Hooper, Ava Glaze, Hope Glaze, and Eli Glaze. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Marley Underwood and Caine Widener; his sister, Sharon Evans; his brother and sister-in-law, Hugh and Robyn Glaze; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Debbie (Darrell) Strickland and Greg (Andrea) Henry; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence Glaze and Alice Skelton, and by his brother, Keith Glaze.

Randall will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his steady presence, his willingness to help without seeking recognition, and the many lives he influenced through faith, service, dedication, and humor. The Glaze family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and many friends made at the Ben Atchley State Veterans Home for the compassionate care and support Randall received this past year.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at Kyker Funeral Homes, Sweetwater, from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. with the funeral service to follow at 7:00 P.M. in Kyker's Chapel with Minster: Hugh Glaze and Minster: Bill Haywood officiating. Interment 11:00 A.M. on Thursday in the Sweetwater Memorial Park with full military honors provided by members of the U.S. Army, Sweetwater V.F.W. Gold Star Post 5156 and American Legion Post 106. Kyker Funeral Homes, Sweetwater, in charge of arrangements. www.kykerfuneralhomes.com