Richard Allen Coffey

Richard was a charter member of Cumberland Baptist Church and lived a life marked by service, dedication, and community involvement. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Third Class during the Korean War aboard the USS Essex (CV-9). He remained active in veteran organizations, including the VFW and the American Legion.

Following his military service, Richard built a long and respected career with the Knoxville News Sentinel, where he worked from 1956 until 1991 as a stereotypist and photo engraver. He also served as a local president of the International Stereotypers Union. In his leisure time, he enjoyed fellowship with others as a member of the Smoky Mountain Military Vehicle Club.

Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dale Coffey; his son, David Coffey; his parents, Merrell and Carrie Coffey; and his brothers, Leland Braun and Gary Coffey; sister, Tina Braun and Marie Coffey.

He is survived by his children, Larry Frank Coffey and Joy Beth Coffey, and daughter-in-law Shawn Simpson. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Emily Halbrook, John Coffey, Eric and Kate Faulkner; and his great-grandchildren, Amelia Nagrocki and Jaxson Dykes.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Right at Home, the aides and nurses at Northshore Heights and Ben Atchley State Veterans Home, and the friends and staff at Prime West Knoxville for their compassionate care. Also, his neighbors on Blue Bird Lane, Kodak, Rick Wilson, Najeeba Orfali Coffey and sister-in-law, Terri Grovenstein and brother-in-law, Eddie Grovenstein.

Receiving of family and friends will be held on April 7, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Berry Highland Memorial. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 p.m., officiated by Chaplain A.D. Baxter. Interment will take place on April 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Berry Highland Memorial.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Tennessee.

Richard will be remembered for his service, his dedication to his work, and the many friendships he built throughout his life.