Paul Jefferson Hackney Jr., age 73, of Athens, passed away at his Decatur home on January 15th, 2026.

Paul was born on April 23rd, 1952 in Knoxville to Paul and Margaret Hackney. He spent his youth growing up in Maynardville and Athens and left to join the United States Navy after graduating from McMinn County High School. He served in the Navy for 6 years before enlisting in the Coast Guard for an additional three years, stationed in Charleston, SC. After his discharge from the military he worked as a funeral director and as a caretaker until his retirement.

Paul is preceded in death by his mother and father, Paul and Margaret Hackney, sisters, Sue Sharp and Janice Evans, brother, Robert Knisley, and daughter, Caitlyn.

He is survived by his son, PJ and sisters, Jean Harill and Frances Turner, also several nieces and nephews, a multitude of cousins, and countless friends.

Per his many, many requests on the matter, there will not be any formal services. Instead, Paul will be cremated and his ashes committed to the sea, a place he had longed to return to since leaving.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Paul Hackney Scholarship at East Athens Baptist Church, if desired.

Decatur Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to serve the Hackney family.