Hugh L Denton

Born on September 2, 1939, in Madisonville, TN, Hugh lived a life marked by devotion to family, steady work, service to others, and stories that grew richer each time he told them.

Hugh is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Stella Denton; sisters Marie Pressley (husband John), Ora Lee Kinser (husband J.L.), and Margie Mangis (husband Charles); brothers Winfred Denton (wife Zula) and Lloyd Denton; sister-in-law, Zelma Puett, and grandchildren Jessie Denton and Scottie Lee Denton. Nieces, Brenda McLemore, Donna Frank and nephew, Richard Pressley.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Marcella Denton. Hugh was endlessly proud of their marriage, often asking others, “How many years do you have on that ring? I’ve got 62.”

Hugh leaves behind his children Hugh Lee Denton, Lisa Mae Foxwell (husband Neil), and Zelma Tennille Denton; grandchildren Ashley Denton, Tyler Denton, Trace Foxwell, Tasha Hearon, and Nicole VanDyke; and great-grandchildren Paige, David, Gabe, Jacob, and Lane. Great great grandchild, Porter Scott. He is also survived by brothers Jim Denton, Cecil Denton, and sister Helen McCoy and brother-in-law, Danny Puett. And many nieces and nephews.

A hardworking man all his life, Hugh spent 28 years as a refrigeration mechanic for Kroger Co., following 15 years with White Stores. After retiring, he wasn’t one to sit still. He opened a small lawn mower repair shop in his backyard, helping neighbors and friends for years with the same steady hands and generous spirit he brought to everything he did.

Hugh’s favorite year was 1963—the year he married Marcella and the year he joined the United States Army. He loved sharing the story of how quickly life changed for him:

“I drove a milk truck picking up gallons of raw milk. I walked five miles home one day, and the next day I was in Fort Knox, Kentucky.”

His service took him to Germany, where he remembered snow-capped mountains, frost on the ground, and long nights in tents. He was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated—another memory he carried with him throughout his life.

In his later years, Hugh found joy in simple things: tinkering in his shop, telling stories, and spending time with his beloved dogs, Smokey and Sassy, who were never far from his side.

Hugh was a man who worked hard, loved deeply, and never missed a chance to share a laugh or a bit of wisdom. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held at Berry Highland West Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 26, at 12:00 PM, with Pastor Amy Figg Ley officiating. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 PM in Berry Highland West Cemetery, 9913 Sherrill Boulevard, Knoxville, TN 37932.