Joseph McSpadden Harrill, (affectionately known to his family as “Pop”), age 85, of Morristown, Tennessee passed away on June 16, 2023. Joe was born on July 6, 1937, in Madisonville, Tennessee to Fred and Elizabeth Harrill. He attended Madisonville schools, Tennessee Wesleyan College and graduated from The University of Tennessee in Knoxville with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management. At UT, Joe was a member of Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity. While in college, Joe joined the Tennessee Air National Guard at McGhee Tyson Air Force Base. His unit was called to active duty during the Berlin Crisis of 1961 at which time he served in France. On July 25, 1964, Joe and Donna Blackburn were married and enjoyed almost 59 years of marriage. Joe’s career was in textiles and fiberglass. He retired from Saint Gobain Vetrotex America, Wichita Falls, Texas in 2001. After retirement, he and Donna moved back to his “Beloved East Tennessee” and settled in Morristown. In retirement, Joe enjoyed spending time with his family and tinkering, restoring, and driving old cars. Joe was a Christian and a member of First United Methodist Church of Morristown.
Joe is survived by his loving wife Donna Harrill of almost 59 years, their three children; sons Brent (Michele) of Sevierville; Gary (Dawn) of Robert, Louisiana; and daughter Becky Puckett of Corinth, Texas; 6 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren; sibling, Ann Rogers (Gary) of Dandridge; sisters-in-laws, Laura Harrill of Maryville; and Julia Barnette (Carroll) of Maryville; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, brother David Harrill, and sister Frederica Harrill.
A memorial service is scheduled for June 24th, 11:30 am at First United Methodist Church Morristown. The family will receive friends from 10:30 to 11:30 am. The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be made in Joe’s name to the Children’s Ministry at First United Methodist Church of Morristown. Condolences may be offered at www.mccartyevergreen.com.
