02/02/2026
Hobart L. “Coach” Powell Sr., aged 92, Jonesborough, passed away Tuesday, January 27th, 2026, at Franklin Woods Community Hospital.
Hobart was born on December 22, 1933, to the late James and Agnes Walker Powell.
He attended Sulphur Springs High School where he excelled in athletics and academics.
He later attended Lincoln Memorial University, playing basketball and baseball.
After graduating college in 1955, Hobart married the love of his life, the lovely Phyllis Henry Bowman, and was drafted by the New York Yankees.
His professional baseball career was interrupted after two years when he was drafted into the U.S. Army.
Following his military service, he embarked upon his career in education. His first opportunity came coaching men’s basketball in Branford, Florida. There, he led the Buccaneers to a 27-4 record and a trip to the State Semi-finals.
After two wonderful years in Florida, Hobart and Phyllis returned to Tennessee, settling in Jonesborough to raise their family. He spent his first 8 years coaching men’s basketball and baseball at Jonesboro High School, the next two years coaching men’s basketball at Sulphur Springs High School, and the next 3 years as the first varsity men’s basketball coach at David Crockett High School.
After receiving his master's degree in education from East Tennessee State University, Hobart made the transition to administration in the Washington County School System. First serving as Principal at Asbury Elementary School, then Assistant Principal, and later, Principal at David Crockett High School. He spent the remaining years of his career as Principal of Fall Branch Elementary School and Jonesborough Elementary School.
Following retirement, he spent 22 years working part-time with his friends in the Pro Shop at Pine Oaks Golf Course.
Faith, family, and friends were always cornerstones of Hobart’s life. He was a loving husband, a devoted father and son, and a faithful friend. He and Phyllis were blessed with many lifelong friends, through which they raised their families, shared in each other's celebrations and sadness, and grew in love with one another. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
Hobart’s career ambition was to be a coach. To teach young men how to work hard, prepare, and compete to the best of their abilities. He loved his time spent with his players and assistant coaches. He cherished these relationships throughout his life.
As a principal, he loved developing relationships with young people. He always looked for the best in each student, wanting them to be successful and reach their full potential. He maintained his love for children until his passing.
Hobart was a member of Jonesborough United Methodist Church and Rhea Lodge No. 47. He was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on 3/15/1956. He is a member of the Lincoln Memorial University Sports Hall of Fame and the David Crockett High School Sports Hall of Fame. He was an avid golfer, lifetime New York Yankees fan, and dedicated supporter of East Tennessee State Athletics. Though proud of these, his greatest loyalty was always with the students and faculty of David Crockett High School.
Hobart was proceeded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Phyllis Bowman Powell, his parents James and Agnes Walker Powell, his brother John Powell, and his brother Jean Powell.
Survivors include his three children: Lori Powell Thumler (Fritz) of Knoxville; Hobie Powell of Johnson City; Jim Powell of Sulphur Springs; four grandchildren: Abbie Thumler-Robins (Cliff) of Durham; Alexander Thumler of Knoxville; Walker Powell (Olivia) of Johnson City; Caroline Powell of Johnson City; one great grandson: Shiloh Thumler-Robins of Durham; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and family.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to his loving church family at Jonesborough United Methodist Church, his wonderful neighbors; Tom and Renee McNeese, Jim and Fama Fenner, and Mike and Lois Tilley, his loving care givers from Home Instead, especially Rik Mangino, and to all the people throughout the greater Jonesborough area for their friendship and loving kindness shown to their father throughout his lifetime.
Funeral Services will be conducted at Jonesborough United Methodist Church with Pastor Michael Lester officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday, February 7th, from 2:00-5:00 prior to the service. Graveside services will be Sunday, February 8th at 1:00 at Sulphur Springs Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Alexander Thumler, Walker Powell, Cliff Robins, Bo Bowman, Joe Bowman, and Andy Bowman.
In lieu of flowers, the family request Memorial donations may be made to Jonesborough United Methodist Church. 211 W. Main Street, Jonesborough, Tn 37659.
Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.dillow-taylor.com
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN 423-753-3821
