Thomas Ivan Puckett

Thomas I. Puckett, age 61, of Newport, TN, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2026.

Thomas was born late in his mother and father's life, a miracle/surprise, if you will. He was in the Navy for a short time then came home and worked at the Cocke County Sheriff's Department as a deputy, and then for the Newport Police Department as a police officer. He was also a member of the Newport Rescue Squad and Civil Air Patrol. After his years in law enforcement, he got his Nursing degree at Walters State Community College. While living in Knoxville, he worked first at Fort Sanders Regional Hospital and after moving to the Atlanta area, he worked at Grady Memorial Hospital. Moving back to be closer to his mother, he worked for various hospitals and home health throughout the Knoxville area.

Thomas was a member of Macedonia United Methodist Church in Knoxville, TN. He loved animals, the outdoors and cave exploring and hiking in his younger days. He also loved astrophysics and the farm that he recently moved to in Tazewell with his husband, Ray.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Thurman I. Puckett and Ora Belle Puckett.

Thomas is survived by his husband, Ray Pillion, Jr.

The family would like to offer a special thanks to the nurses and staff at Fort Sanders Medical Center and the many extended family members and friends for their care, compassion and support.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Gentry-Griffey Funeral Chapel and Crematory is honored to serve the Puckett family and invites you to sign the online registry at www.gentry-griffey.com.