The sports world mourned the loss of Doug McBee, a dedicated coach and educator who passed away on July 20 after a tractor accident on his farm. He was 73 years old, leaving behind a family, a community of players, and a lasting imprint on Tennessee basketball.
McBee began his teaching career at Rutledge High School before the school merged into Grainger in 2008. He subsequently served as an assistant coach for both the boys' and girls' basketball programs at Grainger High School, where he mentored countless athletes over a distinguished tenure.
A Life Interwoven with Tennessee Basketball
He is survived by his wife Sue and their three children — Chase, Skylar, and Megan Schrock. Skylar, who joined the University of Tennessee as a walk‑on in 2009, earned a full scholarship and went on to play for the Vols for four seasons. His most memorable moment came during a thrilling victory over Kansas in 2010, when his clutch three‑pointer became a highlight reel staple.
Doug never missed a chance to watch his son’s games, attending every contest during Skylar’s college career. Sue, meanwhile, balanced her role as a mother with mission trips to Haiti, Belize, the Dominican Republic, and South Dakota, missing only a handful of games for those humanitarian journeys.
In 2012, Grainger High School honored Skylar’s achievements by retiring his jersey, a testament to his 2,363 career points. Doug expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support his family received, noting that the recognition was a profound honor for both him and his son.
The funeral and visitation for Doug McBee are scheduled for July 27 at Blue Springs Baptist Church. Local authorities, including the Grainger County Sheriff's Department, have coordinated the services, while Knox News has been instrumental in sharing the story with a broader audience.
Beyond the court, McBee’s influence extended to community service and youth development. His dedication to his players, his family, and his faith resonated throughout the region, ensuring that his legacy will endure well beyond his passing.