“Coach” Wendell Lee Clowers, 68, of Chattanooga, passed away Sunday, July 15, 2018 at his home. He was born in Cincinnati, Oh. Wendell graduated from Chattanooga City High School in 1968, where he was known as a hard throwing left-handed pitcher. After turning down an offer by the Houston Astros, he accepted a scholarship to the University of Tennessee, where he served as captain of the baseball team, became a UT Volunteer Letterman and was often referred to as the “Vanderbilt Killer.” He then attended Traveca College in Nashville, where he earned his master’s degree and completed his specialist in education from MTSU.
Wendell turned his love of the game into a lifelong career by coaching and educating young men and women for over 40 years. He left a positive impression on many, which turned into lifelong friendships throughout his time at Tyner High, Notre Dame, Ringgold Middle and Lakeview schools. Never was an athlete left behind; he gave from his own pocket to ensure athletes were given the opportunity to learn the game. He was passionate about helping athletes aspire to the next level and pursue their college dreams.
Wendell was a man of great life experiences, fantastic stories, successes and failures on and off the court and field, big laughs, lifelong friends, sharp outfits, one-liners, great comebacks and a handsome smile. Those who knew him appreciated his love of gift-giving, sports, shopping, Disney, his children and grandchildren and every holiday and season in life. His spiritual journey was an amazing story, just like his character in life.
His parents, Carl and Marilyn Clowers and his sister, Marilyn Clowers Smith preceded Wendell in death.
Survivors include his loving daughters, Beth (Aaron) Clowers Choate, of Georgetown and Natalie (Tim) Clowers Allen, of Chattanooga; four grandchildren, Hayden Choate, Bailey Choate, Lili Kay Allen and Luci Rose Allen; nieces, Terri Johnson and Melinda Smith; nephew, Gregory Smith; and several great nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life visitation will be held on Friday, July 20 from 2-8 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home on Battlefield Parkway in Fort Oglethorpe. A private memorial will be held for the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lakeview Middle School Athletics Department.
Visit www.heritagebattlefield.com to share words of comfort with the family and view the memorial tribute.