John T. Hite

John T. Hite

5/5/45 - 1/7/26

On January 7, 2026, John Thomas Hite crossed that big river, passing away peacefully with loved ones by his side. John was a Bristol native and a THS Class of ’65 alumnus. While working at Univac and going to college, he met and fell in love with Drucilla. She made him promise to fly right and finish his education—or she would not marry him. They married shortly after man first set foot on the moon, and John kept his promise. He went on to earn 56 hours beyond a master’s degree in education at ETSU.

John spent most of his career as a special education teacher in the Sullivan County school system. Later, he volunteered his time and became chairman of the BTCS School Board, where he continued to serve for several years after his retirement in 2000. John was a devoted husband and father and created many opportunities for adventure on South Holston Lake and along the Carolina coastlines.

Before Drucilla’s death in 1997, he stood by her with full devotion, caring for her through more than a decade of health trials. When she knew she did not have long on this earth, she made John make another promise—to find love again after her passing.

He and Donna married in 2000. John’s second act in life occurred with her, as they enjoyed camping, traveling, and spoiling a lot of dogs. They were married for more than twenty years before Donna fell ill. With that same degree of devotion, John dutifully cared for her for several years until her death, even as his own health began to fade.

A Master Mason of the 32nd degree and a member of the Scottish Rite, John served his community as a Shriner of the Jericho Temple. He loved helping children overcome adversity in both his personal and professional life, finding joy in helping them succeed at any level.

Along with his first and second loves, John was preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Alice; his brother, Jim; and his sister, Eloise. He is survived by his and Drucilla’s two sons, Brynt (Stephanie) and Tom (Roxanne); grandsons Henry and Sam; and a third brother—honorary son and close friend, Jason Cosby.

A memorial service will be held at Frost Funeral Home on Saturday, February 7th, at 11:00 a.m., 250 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his memory to a cause he held dear, the Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Mr. John T. Hite.