The UT community is mourning the passing of UT Police Department Community Service Officer Joe Varnell, who died March 9, 2011, from injuries suffered a few days earlier in a traffic accident.
Varnell is survived by his wife Macy and his three children Brittney, Tony and Chris. Macy Varnell wanted the UT community to know she appreciates all that it has been done for her and her family during this difficult time. “Joe really enjoyed his time at the university and spoke of it every day,” she added. Varnell had been with UTPD since 2009.
“The men and women of the UT Police Department have heavy hearts for the family of Community Service Officer Varnell,” said UT Police Chief Gloria Graham. “He brought an exemplary level of dedication to the department, students and overall UT community.”
Visitation for family and friends of Varnell will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 12, at Cook Mortuary in Maynardville. The funeral will follow. Corporal Amanda Crum will be the liaison between Varnell’s family and those in the UT community who wish to express their condolences. Crum can be reached at 865-974-1092 or acrum1@utk.edu.