Randy Smith

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Hubert "Randy" Smith, age 78, passed away peacefully Saturday June 20, 2026 leaving behind a legacy defined by achievement, mentorship, and enduring friendships.

Born on February 15, 1948, in Davidson County, Tennessee, to Hubert Wilson Smith and Zada Frances Hudson Smith, Randy was raised in the Old Hickory community, where his lifelong love of athletics first began. Tennis became his passion, opening doors that would shape the course of his life.

Randy attended Tennessee Technological University, where he distinguished himself as a student-athlete before beginning a career that would span decades in collegiate athletics. His accolades included four Conference Championships along with being honored with four Coach of the Year Awards culminating with being inducted into the Tennessee Tech Athletics Hall of Fame. As a tennis coach, administrator, mentor, Randy devoted much of his professional life to helping young men and women grow-not only as athletes, but as people. Countless former players, students, coaches, and colleagues remember him not only for what he accomplished, but for the encouragement, guidance, and friendship he freely gave.

Randy loved the sun. When he wasn’t on the tennis court, he was on Center Hill Lake. He undoubtedly had the cleanest houseboat on the water and loved a late in the day boat cruise. Later he traded the lake for the beach life when he moved down to the 30A area. He made a lasting impact on so many owners of the properties he managed just has he had early in his life with student-athletes. His Randy’s Ramblings publishing’s became a must read for many, and he could often be found lending an ear to a friend on a barstool at Shades. He was a tireless worker and became a friend to so many. He eventually returned to the lake life moving to Lake Martin after retirement. At each stop he had a favorite spot or two where everyone knew him and loved seeing his smile as he walked in the door.

Although Randy never married and had no children of his own, he was "family" to so many. He is survived not by immediate family, but by an extended family of dear friends, former players, colleagues, and the many lives he touched over the years. His friendships were deep, lasting, and genuine. He celebrated the successes of others and remained loyal through life's challenges.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert Wilson Smith and Zada Frances Hudson Smith.

An intimate graveside service will be held Monday July 20, 2026 at 10:00am at Cookeville City Cemetery. A Celebration of Life to be determined and will update once complete.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tennessee Technological University Men's Tennis program at https://www.ttuwingsup.com/menstennisdonate

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.