Carson Leroy Hutchison

Dr. Carson Leroy Hutchison, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend; passed away on March 28, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on December 23, 1949, in Maynardville, Tennessee. Carson remained a lifelong resident of the community, dedicating his life to the service and well-being of his family, friends, and neighbors. Carson was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Vonnie Hutchison; his brothers, Wayne and Gideon Hutchison; and his sister, JoAnn Lyons. He leaves behind his loving wife of 44 years, Teresa Gail Whitehead Hutchison, along with their children: Dr. Joe Charles Hutchison (Julia Hurley), Dr. Jessica Lynn Crowe (Ian Crowe), and Nora Sue Hassell (Paul Hassell), and their families. Carson was a proud grandfather of eight (Kenzlee and Charlotte Hutchison; Tessa and Blake Crowe; Flora, Wilden, Finn, and Della Hassell), his impact on their lives and futures can scarcely be measured, as he imparted wisdom, love, and guidance that will shape their paths for generations to come.

Always a source of charisma and joy, he was never one to miss out on a good prank. Carson parlayed his childhood church rendition of Hank Williams Sr.’s “Kaw-Liga” into a career as the local radio celebrity, WOKI’s “The King in the Morning.” An entire generation of Knoxvillians laughed, cried, and were entertained by the magnanimous voice from across the dial.

As a more serious contribution, Carson served his community and country with honor as a serviceman in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. We, and our way of life, owe a great debt of gratitude for his sacrifice, and the sacrifice of others.

Carson’s deep love for the people in his community was also reflected in his professional career. He obtained his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Tennessee, in 1982. His life’s work consisted of caring for the animals and families of Union, Campbell, and Claiborne County with expertise and compassion. Throughout his life, Carson's passion for helping others, whether through his work as a clinician, his time on the airwaves, or his tireless dedication to the well-being of his family and of his community, was unwavering. He touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. A private burial service will be held by the family on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Carson's honor to a local humane society of your choice. Carson will be remembered for his generosity, his devotion to family, and his enduring contributions to his community. He was a man of integrity, compassion, and humor, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.