Joe Dan Wooten

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.

The family will receive friends for a memorial visitation on Sunday, January 5, 2025, noon to 3 p.m. at Chase Funeral Home in Huntingdon, Tenn..

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Haywood High School Boys Basketball Program or the Clarksburg High School Boys Basketball Program. 

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. 

A dedicated educator, coach, administrator, and mentor, Coach Wooten left an indelible mark on countless students and athletes. He was named Coach of the Year 12 times throughout his illustrious 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. 

Coach Wooten’s passion for education, leadership, and sports will be cherished by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence, inspiration, and unwavering dedication. 

He is survived by three daughters, Ann (Samuel) Gardner of Brownsville, Pam (James) Hathcock of Oakland, TN, Shannon (Brian) Motsett of Jacksonville, Florida; four grandchildren, Grace (Branon) Fergie, Maggie (Tyler) Howell of Brownsville, Adley Yarbrough and Graham Yarbrough of Oakland, Tenn., and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves close family friends Bruce and Teresa Johnson of Huntingdon. 

Chase Funeral Home, Huntingdon, Tenn.