Claude Allen Plummer Obituary March 3, 2026 - Mynatt Funeral Homes

Claude Allen Plummer, age 81, of Heiskell, Tennessee, passed away peacefully in the early hours on March 3, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born in Johnson City, Tennessee, he moved to Oak Ridge in 1950 and later settled in Heiskell. He graduated from Norris High School with the Class of 1963.

Claude began his career as a machinist while still in high school, taking over his father’s shop as a senior. He went on to work at Union Carbide, Martin-Marietta, Lockheed-Martin, and BWXT, and for seven years owned and operated Fairview Machine & Mfg Co. A gifted inventor, he created and patented the “Chip Puller,” a tool designed to safely remove hot metal shavings during milling. The device was shipped around the world and remains in use today. Known for his brilliant, practical mind, Claude fought a courageous battle with throat cancer, maintaining a positive spirit that encouraged fellow patients through his fist bumps and thumbs-up.

A man of strong moral integrity, Claude loved deeply and offered kindness and compassion freely. He lived life fully, enjoying long-distance motorcycling, restoring his 1951 Ford Victoria, working on his farm, and gathering with family and friends. His Christian faith was central to who he was. He brought joy and warmth to everyone he met and will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Ethel (Cox) Plummer; sister, Peggy Plummer; son-in-law, Darryl Stanton; and stepdaughter, Julie Sellers. Claude is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Linda (Grant) Plummer; daughters Dannette (Plummer) Stanton (fiancé Mike) and Cindy (Plummer) Daugherty; son Jason Plummer (Johnna); stepchildren Jennifer (Grant) Zaruba (Lee), Michael Grant, and Jason Grant; sixteen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; brothers Johnny Plummer, Roy Plummer (Andrea), and Charles Plummer (Cathy); and many nieces and nephews.