John Louis Rawlings

John Louis Rawlings, age 89, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2026.

Born in Gatlinburg, TN, to Rush and Martha Rawlings, John was the grandson to the legendary Wiley Oakley, Roamin’ Man of the Mountains. True to his nature, John was a roamin’ man himself. He went to Tennessee Institute of Electronics. Then, his career in electrical engineering took him from East Tennessee to Missouri, to Dallas, Texas, then finally back to East Tennessee where he settled in Powell. His accomplishments were vast: owner of a construction company, owner of a gun store, licensed manufacturer of firearms, founding member of the Colt Collectors Association, investor in multiple businesses, engineer for Zenith and Texas Instruments, even shot 100 bears! Yodelay-dee-hoo!

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Gail Rawlings Valentine.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah Rawlings; children, Denise, Clifton, Marissa and Martha Ann Rawlings; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Linda Rawlings.

Family will receive friends for visitation on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Mynatt Funeral Home, Powell Chapel from 5:00pm-7:00pm with a service to follow at 7:00pm officiated by Rev. Lucas Clabough. A private burial for family will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to missionsbyfaith@fbcpowell or samaritanspurse.org

Condolences can be left for the family at www.mynattfh.com

Mynatt Funeral Home, Powell Chapel is honored to be serving the family of John Louis Rawlings.

Mynatt Funeral Home Powell Chapel * 2000 Powell Drive * Powell, TN 37849 * (865) 362-5382 * www.mynattfh.com