Michael (Mike) Lamar Foxx transitioned on October 20, 2021. Mike was born in Knoxville, TN on May 29, 1959, to Vernetta and Leonard Foxx, Sr. and grew up in the Lonsdale community. He graduated from Rule High School with the Class of 1977, and later graduated from Alabama A&M University in 1982. During his time at Alabama A&M, Mike’s outstanding performance as an offensive tackle led to his induction to the Alabama A&M University Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010.
Mike’s family was the cornerstone of his life. He married the love of his life, Marla (neé Jones) on May 9, 1992, and they welcomed their daughter, Madelyn, in 2005. Mike’s passion for assisting and mentoring youth was evidenced by his many years of service as an educator for Knox County Schools and his several years of coaching youth football for Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC). Mike was equally devoted to his beloved Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, where he pledged the Iota Alpha Chapter in 1992. For many years, Mike showcased his talents and love of football as the “Golden Voice of the AE Roadrunners”
Known as the “Luther Vandross” of Knoxville, Mike loved to share his vocal talents through a myriad of venues, including the United Fellowship Mass Choir under the direction of the late Robert Spencer, and the Men’s Choir at Clinton Chapel AME Zion Church. He was also an inaugural member of the Crusaders Group at Clinton Chapel and enjoyed spending time playing golf with his friends.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard Foxx, Sr. and Vernetta Foxx.
He is survived by wife Marla Foxx; daughter Madelyn; brothers Frank Foxx and Eric (Sheri) Foxx; uncle Stroddy Curry; aunts Saundra Curry and Mildred (Larry) Anthony; sister-in-law, Melanie (Emanuel) Dixson; nephews, Anthony Smith and Dwayne (Alicia) Cotner; nieces, Imani Allen and Dedra Cotner, and a host of loving relatives and friends.
Wednesday, October 27, 2021, a public walkthrough is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. at Clinton Chapel AME Zion Church, 546 College Street, Knoxville, TN. Social distancing and face coverings are required. A homegoing celebration will follow for immediate family and close friends. Reverend Dr. John A. Butler officiating. Entombment at Sherwood Memorial Gardens, Alcoa, TN, where a white dove release will conclude the service. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that a donation be made in Mike’s honor to the American Kidney Fund at www.kidneyfund.org. Professional arrangements entrusted to Patton Funeral Home, Brian L. Buckmon, LFD 1-800-824-8283 or www.pattonfuneralhome1962.com
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