It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joe Peck, who departed this life on June 25, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on March 26, 1934, in Howe, Oklahoma, Joe was a cherished husband, father, and friend full of love and compassion for all.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mary Peck, and two brothers, Dwight and Ralph. He is survived by his spouse Linda, his three children, Terry, Robert, and Tom, and two daughters-in-law. He was also the proud grandparent of four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish the memories they shared.

Joe graduated from Oklahoma State University and was commissioned an Ensign in the United States Navy. Joe and Linda met in Athens, GA, while he was attending the U.S. Navy Supply Corps Officer School and she was a student at the University of Georgia. They were married in 1956 and shared a lifetime of love and laughter while moving all over the world during their 23-year U.S. Navy career. After retiring from military service, he started a second career at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, TN. Joe and Linda retired a second time in 1989 and moved to Maryville, TN, to enjoy the beauty of east Tennessee.

Joe enjoyed bicycling and completed two rides across Iowa. He was also an accomplished woodworker throughout his life. Joe and Linda travelled all over North America by RV visiting friends and family, enjoyed several river cruises in Europe, and spent many summers as volunteer park rangers at Yellowstone National Park.

Joe selflessly volunteered his time to a variety of causes. He provided expert counseling to small business owners and entrepreneurs through the Blount County Small Business Development Center. He assisted with planning and construction of houses through the Blount County Habitat for Humanity. He planned and coordinated the regional Mission of Hope Christmas Blue Barrel logistics and volunteered with Linda on other projects at Mission of Hope. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Maryville and served as a deacon.

Joe’s kindness and compassion were his endearing qualities, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He will be forever remembered for his strength, determination, and unwavering loyalty to God, family, and country.

A small family service to celebrate Joe's remarkable life will be held on July 16, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at Smith Funeral and Cremation Services located at 1402 Tuckaleechee Pike, Maryville, TN. He will be interred at the East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Mission of Hope Knoxville (https://missionofhope.org/donate), as Joe believed deeply in the power of giving.

Condolences may be shared at Smith Funeral & Cremation Services, 865-983-1000, or www.smithfuneralandcremation.com.