Michael Douglas Hooker

HOOKER, Michael Douglas, M.D. 60, died unexpectedly on December 19, 2014. Mike was born in Loudon, TN on January 29, 1954. Growing up the oldest of three siblings, Mike was a gifted student and athlete, earning a scholarship to play football and run track at Carson-Newman where he was an All-American defensive back and kick returner. Following his undergraduate work, Mike was accepted to Emory University medical school where he became an orthopedic surgeon. During his brief time as a physician, Mike specialized in sports injuries and provided care to many young athletes in Clarksville, TN. His medical career was cut short by a degenerative disc problem in his back requiring six major surgeries over two decades. Forced into early retirement by chronic pain, Mike moved his family back to East Tennessee where he spent much of his time fishing, riding his tractor, and attending events for his five grandchildren. Despite being in pain, Mike always made an effort to attend ballgames, performances and events for his grandchildren. He was so proud of them and encouraged them work hard, have fun, and to try their best. There are many qualities to describe Mike. Dedicated: even after 20 years of retirement, each year Mike completed his continuing education to retain his medical certification. Determined: constantly battling through pain, Mike worked hard and fished harder. Generous: there was never someone Mike was not willing to help. He often found his joy in being able to help others either physically, financially or simply through words of wisdom. Mike loved his family and friends. He was especially fond of his friends and neighbors in Townsend, TN who welcomed him into their tight knit community with open arms. He also loved the people of Little Cayman, Cayman Islands. He spent much of his time on the small island, telling tales, working at Village Square or the Little Cayman Museum, helping people and, of course, fishing, with his friend, mentor and father-in-law, the late, Linton Tibbetts. Mike would want you to know the he was a follower of Christ and is now in heaven with his Lord and Savior. Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Imogene Hooker. He is survived by: his father, Doug Hooker; wife, Donna Hooker; children: sons, Kyle and his wife Adrienne; Ryan (Bubba) and his wife Jess; his daughter Angie Hooker; brother, Dale Hooker and his wife Mary Beth; sister, Sherry Smith; his five grandchildren: Daniel, Bradyn, Bryce, Brylee and Ellyson; several nieces and nephews; and his honorary pallbears: Marvie Webb, Delon Tipton, Ronnie Suttals, Robert Hurlston, Ed Cunningham and Mark Covington. A Celebration of Life Service, officiated by Dr. Jerry Russell, will be held on Tuesday, December 23 at Fairview United Methodist Church in Maryville, TN. Receiving of friends will be from 6-7pm with the service following at 7pm. The family will also receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: The Little Cayman Museum via the "donate" button at littlecaymanmuseum.org. McAmmon-Ammons-Click Funeral Home: 220 West Broadway Avenue, Maryville, TN 37801 (865) 982-6812.