Beloved Coach, Educator Joe Dan Wooten Dies

HUNTINGDON — Mr. Joe Dan Wooten, fondly known as “Coach Wooten,” died at his home on December 23, 2024. He was born to Maggie Graham Wooten and Allen Wooten in Selmer, Tennessee on August 14, 1940.

Coach Wooten was a graduate of Selmer High School (Class of 1958), Lambuth College (1964), and Memphis State University (1976), where he earned his Master’s Degree.

Coach Wooten was a dedicated educator, coach, administrator, and mentor who left an indelible mark on countless students and athletes. He was named Coach of the Year 12 times throughout his career. His contributions to high school athletics included:

Haywood High School (1968–1975): Led the 1974–1975 team to the school’s first-ever state tournament appearance.

Selmer High School (1975–1979).

Huntingdon High School (1979–1983).

Clarksburg High School (1983–1995): Achieved the pinnacle of his coaching career by leading the 1987 team to a state championship.

After retiring in 1995, Coach Wooten devoted himself full-time to his passion for quarter horses and became a breeder of paint horses. His love for the land and animals brought him as much pride as his years in education and athletics.

Coach Wooten’s legacy was recognized with numerous honors, including induction into the Haywood County Sports Hall of Fame (1997) and the Carroll County Sports Hall of Fame (2009). In 2009, Clarksburg High School dedicated its gymnasium in his honor, a testament to his profound impact on the community. His name is imprinted on the gymnasium floor.

He is survived by three daughters, Ann (Samuel) Gardner of Brownsville, Pam (James) Hathcock of Oakland, Tenn., Shannon (Brian) Motsett of Jacksonville, Florida; four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Chase Funeral Home, Huntingdon, Tenn.