Obituary of John B. "J. B." Curtis, Sr.

John B. “J.B.” Curtis, Sr., age 95 of Knoxville, TN, passed away February 10, 2024. John was born in Hendersonville, TN on April 29, 1928. He was a graduate of Hendersonville High School and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Tennessee. He was the twelfth founding member of the agricultural fraternity, Alpha Gamma Rho (AGR) at the University of TN. Hard work was his hobby. John farmed in his youth and throughout his lifetime. He raised tobacco, cows, vegetables and strawberries in his garden. Put John on a tractor and he was happy. Every one of his children and grandchildren have fond memories of riding the tractor.

In 1950, John met the love of his life, Betty Walker of Knoxville, TN. They were married in 1952 and had five children, settling in Rogersville, TN. John had a successful career for over 40 years with Tennessee Farm Bureau serving in many counties throughout TN. He completed his career as Agency Manager in Hawkins County where he was the first agent to successfully open up a satellite office in the state of TN. He served as President of the Rotary. He was a song leader in the Church of Christ and remained a good and faithful servant. He was a kind and humble man.

Preceded in death by parents: Martin Rufus Curtis, Sr. and Earline Dorris Curtis; brothers: Robert, Charles, Martin “Bug” and Allen Curtis; sisters: Milton Starnes, Emmaline Reese and Katherine Rice. Survived by son Jack Curtis (Marilyn); son John B. Curtis, Jr. (Lisa); son Fred Curtis (Brenda); son Sam Curtis (Jody); daughter Laura (John) Heeke; brother, Donald Curtis; sisters Ann (Joe) Saunders and Earline (Donald) Dixon; dearly loved grandchildren & great grandchildren: Jeremy (Holly) and Finn; Abby (Bryan) Emmett and Everett John Walsh; Nathaniel (Aca) Caleb Delgado and Nathalie; Jane (Steven) Steven, Jr., Curtis, and Abigail Wheeler; Claire (Erik) Spangenberg; Jess (Tyler) Blevins; Amber Heeke (Salvador) Sanchez; Caroline, Bryan and many nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank NHC Farragut Assisted Living Staff and special caretaker Nancy for taking such loving care of John.

Funeral Service will be Saturday, February 17^th at 1:00 p.m. at Sellars Family Heritage at Gallatin.  Visitation will be Saturday, February 17^th from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at 1:00 p.m.  Interment will follow the service at Spring Hill Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest you remember John with a contribution to the charity of your choice, or an act of the kindness for which he was known.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held at a later date in Rogersville, TN.

Sellars Family Heritage at Gallatin, 100 E. Albert Gallatin Avenue, Gallatin, TN  37066.  615-452-7115. Obituary line 615-452-5900.  E-mail:  familyheritagefh@gmail.com. Website:  familyheritagefh.com.