JC Lovely

JC Lovely passed away on June 23,2026, reuniting with his wife Wanda of 70

years, after 2 months without her.

JC left his home in Dutch Valley at age 13 and after a few years of adventure,

doctored his birth certificate and joined the US Air Force at 16 years of age.

He spent the next 23 years traveling the world, serving his country and

making friends from all over the world.

He retired from service in 1973 and returned to his beloved East Tennessee

hills with Wanda and their four children.

He entered a second career with RCA/GE and retired a second time in 1993.

The chance to rejoin extended family and reintroduce his kids to East TN was a lifelong dream and well accomplished.

For the next 30 years, he and Wanda traveled the US with Air Force friends, seeing all 50 states.

They were active grandparents and involved in every aspect of their grandkids’ lives, from sporting events to birthdays/holidays to annual beach vacations. They became honorary California residents when the second crop of grandkids arrived there in the early 2000s.

Later in life, he became an avid poker player, joining a local casual group that

emphasized comradery and fellowship over who took the prizes.

Those who knew JC had a lifelong friend: one who was fun-loving, loyal, and

unafraid to share his opinions. He was an incredible role model as a father

and will be remembered for his unwavering support and selflessness.

Even in his final days in the hospital and hospice, he continually asked all visitors if

they needed anything, even offering to share his precious chocolate stash.

He reunites with his wife of 70 years, Wanda Lee McKamey Lovely, and

leaves behind children Kathy (David), Sandy, Mick (Laurie) and Bill (Missy).

His 8 grandchildren (Evan, Scott, Mary Camille, Jonathan, Kat, Julia, Anna and

Reese) will miss big country breakfasts; fishing trips; an unending supply of

chocolate and ice cream; his famous hot dog chili; and above all his affection

and ability to see the big picture.

At his request, there will be no public memorial service.

He was an avid supporter of St. Judes Children’s hospital in Memphis and would prefer

donations to that cause in lieu of flowers.

The family would like to thank Sacred Ground Hospice Center for their

compassion and excellent care that was provided.

In true JC fashion, he kept them entertained until the very end.

We would also like to thank the UT Palliative Care and Hospice service for

their kindness and expertise in guiding the last few weeks of Dad’s life.

JC’s and Wanda’s remains will be laid to rest in the East Tennessee State

Veterans Cemetery at a date to be determined with immediate family

attending.

Arrangements by Cross-Smith Funeral Home

Condolences for the family may be given at http://www.cross-smithfuneralhome.com