On Sunday, April 2, 2023, Joseph “Joey” Lynn Gratz passed away after a short battle with cancer.

Born and raised in Morristown, TN, Joe was a student of the first graduating class of Morristown Hamblen High School West in 1969. He was proud to have served in the United States Army, and was honorably discharged in 1974. Joe was an E4 and worked in cryptology in Germany. He received the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal for his service.

After his discharge from the Army, Joe attended Walters State and received an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice, where he met his wife of 44 years, Susan. Joe retired from his career in Law Enforcement in 2002 after proudly serving with the Morristown Police Department for 27 years and in 2013 after serving on the White Pine Police Department. Joe was caring, compassionate, and conservative. In addition to his love for his family, friends, and

colleagues, Joe had an affinity for antique John Deere tractors, and traveling with his beloved

wife, Susan.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Billy Joe and Alma Gratz.

He is survived by his wife Susan Gratz and children Elizabeth Gratz Hodges (Clint) and David Gratz (Gortney Copeland); grandchildren, Adalyn, Cade, and Eva Jo Hodges and JosephCampbell (Camp) Gratz; brother, Randy Gratz (Sarah) and sister, DeAiva Gratz-Jones (Kenny); brothers and sister-in-law, Paul Denton (Glenda), Sandra Duncan (Scott), and Neal Denton (Angie) nephews and niece William Gratz (Whitney), Adam Gratz (Amanda), Laura Duncan, and Graham Denton; and great nieces Elyza and Mabry Gratz.

Special thanks to Smoky Mountain Hospice, Dr. Steven Bindrim, White Pine Family Practice, and Sara Hubbard.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m.on Wednesday, April 5 at Mayes Mortuary, with a service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who are able make donations to Glendale Global Methodist Church c/o Hugh Holt, 3737 Dan Drive, Morristown, TN 37813 or Quilts of Valor c/o Kathleen Van Orsdel 153 Scenic View Drive Talbott, TN 37877.

Arrangements by Mayes Funeral Home.