Albert Fatherree Obituary

Albert Lee Fatherree II

January 8, 2025

JOHNSON CITY - Al Fatherree, age 87, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at Johnson City Medical Center, Johnson City, TN. He was born in Memphis, TN and was the son of the late Albert Lee Fatherree, Sr. and Altie Gates Fatherree.

Al was blessed to have two wonderful wives: Donna Smith Fatherree, who passed away in 1992 after 31 years of marriage, and was survived by Lori Caudell Fatherree, who he was blessed to have for 30 years of marriage. Al and Donna had two children: a son, Albert Lee Fatherree III, a daughter, Kerry Tripp (Robert); four grandchildren, Devin (Allison), Emily Francis (Josh), Andrew Tripp, and Ashley Tripp; three great grandchildren, Lyla, Indie, and Beau Fatherree and Baby Boy Francis on the way; sister Betty Quave (David), daughter-in-law Patti Fatherree.

Al graduated from Memphis State. While in college he worked part time for Sears, which led to a 43 year career in credit management. In 1988, Al was transferred to Johnson City to start up a company known as Sears Payment Systems (SPS). Under his leadership the company grew from 150 to 2,500 employees. In 2000 Citi Group purchased the company, at which time he retired. As a member of the Chamber of Commerce, he served in many roles, becoming President in 1997 and being named to the Chamber's Hall of Fame in 2017. He served on many Boards and Committees throughout the years for both Business and Charitable organizations.

Al loved the Lord and lived out his faith every day. He was a member of Munsey Church for 35 years where he served on the Administrative Board, Church Council, Board of Trustees, and many other committees. He loved being a part of his Emmaus Reunion Group and the Virgil Anderson Sunday School Class. He and Lori recently joined Central Baptist Church.

Al was an Air Force Veteran, having served on active duty during the 1962 Cuban Crisis. He was a true patriot and loved his country. One of his passions was flying. He held a private pilot's license, but gave up that passion soon after marriage. Al loved playing golf with his buddies. He also loved boating and fishing with friends. So many friends and colleagues contributed to a blessed life.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, January 17 at Central Baptist Church. Following the service will be a time for friends and family to share memories in the Church Welcome Center. Thanks be to God for allowing us to celebrate this life well lived.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Al Fatherree to Central Baptist Church, 300 N Roan Street, Johnson City, TN 37601 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Read the full obituary and share memories and condolences at www.morrisbaker.com.