Dr. Jerry Honea, Obituary, McEwen High School Mourns the Loss of a Legend
The halls of McEwen High School feel a little quieter and a lot emptier this week. It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the McEwen community announces the passing of Dr. Jerry Honea. He passed away yesterday at home, surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy that is woven into the very fabric of our school.
Dr. Honea was more than just an administrator; he was a cornerstone of our community. Serving as a school administrator at McEwen from 1995 to 2018, he holds the distinction of being the longest-serving school administrator in our county’s history. Over those 23 years, he steered the school through eras of immense transformation. He led during the days when McEwen was a single K–12 institution and provided steady guidance through the complex transition into three separate schools. Under his leadership, enrollment grew, but more importantly, the “Warrior family” grew alongside it.
To those who worked alongside him, Dr. Honea was a force of nature. He was clear, direct, and possessed a work ethic that bordered on the superhuman—famously never taking a single sick day in his entire career. While he could be tough and held everyone to high expectations, he was also deeply empathetic and possessed a sharp, unexpected sense of humor. He was a man of principle who understood that leadership was about people, not just paperwork.
Beyond the school walls, Dr. Honea was a man of diverse passions. He was a proud patriot who loved America and the Marines, a devoted University of Tennessee fan, and an enthusiast of Jeeps. He cherished his roots at “Honea Holler” and his beloved McEwen High School. Above all else, he was a family man. His devotion to his wife, Stacy, and his children, John, Mary, and Denise, was unmatched.
For over two decades, Dr. Honea wasn’t just the principal; he *was* McEwen. He was a constant, guiding presence for generations of students and staff.
To honor his monumental impact, a celebration of life will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026. From 4:00–6:00 PM at McEwen High School, guests are invited to view special displays featuring memorabilia from his time in the Marines, his life as a student, and his love for the Warrior spirit. A formal service will follow at 6:00 PM in the school auditorium.
Please note that McEwen Elementary and McEwen High School will close at 1:00 PM on that day to prepare for the services.
Thank you, Dr. H, for your leadership, your service, and your heart. Rest easy; your Warrior family will carry your legacy forward.