Mr. Hoyt Dean Peoples, age 79 and his beloved wife Wilma Lee Peoples, age 76 of South Pittsburg died suddenly on Thursday, November 20 at their residence.
Dean and Wilma were married September 16, 1967, having just recently celebrated 58 years of marriage. Together, they are survived by their son, James Vince Peoples (Katie Stewart) of Cookeville.
Mr. Dean was born in New Hope on April 18, 1946 to the late Leonard and Dorothy Blevins Peoples. He is survived by brother Jimmy Peoples and sister Teresa McClain.
Dean graduated from Tennessee Tech in 1970 with an Industrial Technology degree. After earning his degree, he joined the US Army for one year and was stationed in Fort Sill, OK. He began his career with Westinghouse and later took a position with the TVA, from which he retired. After his retirement, he continued working as a consultant for several companies, including TVA and FEMA. His career was focused in nuclear power, substations and transmission lines. Dean was also a 32nd degree Mason.
Mrs. Wilma was born in Jasper to the late James Fred and Mary Ovene Belk Dawson. She is survived by brother Jimmy Dawson. She was preceded in death by brother Raymond Dawson.
Wilma graduated from Marion County High School. She worked as a Secretary at South Pittsburg High School for several years. The roles she held dearest were wife and mother, both of which she excelled in. She took great pride in taking care of those that she loved and always went above and beyond for them.
Dean and Wilma are survived by nephews Dale, Robert, Greg and Ken. Nieces include Ashley, Jamie, Tammy, Kellee and Heather. They are also survived by many great-nephews and great nieces who were also very dear to them.
Throughout their 58 years together, they lived in Cookeville, TN, Oklahoma and Virginia before settling in South Pittsburg. Both were very invested in their high school graduating classes, attending regular lunches and helping to plan their reunions. They hosted the best parties, holidays and other get-togethers at their home. They traveled all over the United States, as well as several other countries together. They cherished many close relationships with extended family members and friends. Since Dean’s retirement, they enjoyed spending most weekends on Dale Hollow Lake with Vince and their “lake family”. Dean and Wilma both possessed a generous, giving spirit and were always willing to help anyone at any time. They will be missed dearly by so many.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 24 from 1 p.n. to 5 p.m. at Raulston Woods and Gardens on 1138 Old Dixie Hwy in South Pittsburg. Family will be present to welcome guests from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., followed by a brief service.
Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. You may share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.
The Marion Tribune – December 18, 2025