Buddy Smothers

HOLLOW ROCK, Tenn. — Mr. Buddy Smothers, age 74, of Hollow Rock, Tennessee, died Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at his home.

He was born December 23, 1951, in Milan, Tennessee, to the late Taylor and Hettie (Noles) Smothers. A graduate of Central High School, Buddy became a dedicated teacher and basketball coach. For nearly 40 years, he was beloved as the "Voice of the Tigers," bringing radio commentary to fans alongside Bobby “Flash” Melton, his brother Ernie, and most recently, his wife, Joyce. Among his many broadcasting highlights, he proudly called Central’s state championship victory in 1989. Buddy was an active member of the Bruceton Lions Club and Prospect Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John Byron Smothers; his sister, Ruth Smothers Eason; and his brother-in-law, Hal Eason.

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Joyce Smothers; a sister, Nelda Durham (Melvin) of Waverly; a brother, Ernie Smothers (Stacey) of Hollow Rock; twelve nieces and nephews, and twenty-one great-nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends in the Cherrywood Room of Chase Funeral Home in Huntingdon on Saturday, August 22, from 2:30 until 7:00 p.m..

Graveside funeral services are at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at New Prospect Cemetery with Bro. Jimmy Furr officiating. Serving as pallbearers will be Andrew Smothers, Tyler Smothers, Cameron Emmerson, Mike Miller, Daniel LoVette, and Caleb LoVette.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bruceton Lions Club Christmas Baskets, Gideons International, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.