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Sonnie Bill Mottern, 78, passed away on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at his home in Elizabethton following an extended illness. Mr. Mottern was a native of Carter County and a graduate of Milligan College with a B.A. in Accounting and Business Administration. He was manager and part owner of Dixie Battery Company in Elizabethton. He volunteered his service to Brick Christian Church as Elder and Treasurer until his health declined.
He served as Veterans Service Officer for Carter County from 2007-2017 and was the National Treasurer of the American Ex-Prisoners of War. Sonnie was a United States Army veteran and was in the First Cavalry Division with the rank of SP4. He received the Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 4 Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device (1960), and Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation Badge.
Sonnie had also served as President of the Elizabethton Civitan Club from 1976-1977, was director of the Automotive Wholesalers Association of Tennessee from 1987-1989 and won the 2003 National Leadership Award and was honorary chairman for the Business Advisors Council.
Those left to continue his legacy of honor include his wife, Shelby Mottern, of the home; his daughter, Michelle Mottern of Florida; his son, Brad William Mottern of New Mexico; his daughter, Carrier Allison Brandt of Jonesborough and her husband Vernon Brandt; his grandchildren, Blaise Mottern Kessler of Connecticut, Lukas James Kessler of Florida, Piper Noel Kessler of Florida, Taylor Mottern White of Johnson City, and Rayanna Brandt of Jonesborough; his great-grandchildren, Mackenzee Leigh Thurman and Madyson Grace Thurman; his sister, Ruthie Lewis of Watauga; and a nephew, Eddie Lewis of Florida.
The family will receive friends between the hours of 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. on Friday, February 16, at Tetrick Funeral Home of Elizabethton. The graveside service will follow at 2 p.m. at Mountain Home National Cemetery in the New Annex. Military Honors will be accorded at the graveside. Active pallbearers will be selected from family and friends. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the cemetery at 1:50 p.m. Friday. Words of comfort and memories may be shared with the family on our website at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com.
Tetrick Funeral Home of Elizabethton is honored to serve the family of Sonnie Bill Mottern. Office: (423) 542-2232; Service Information Line: (423) 543-4917.