Terry Wayne Cox, age 79, died at the Tennessee Veteran's home in Cleveland, TN, on October 26. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy. Born in Chattanooga to the late William (Bill) and Evelyn Cox, Wayne was a graduate of Chattanooga High School. While serving in the navy, he attended Opticianry School at the Naval Medical Institute in Bethesda, Maryland. Wayne completed a bachelors of science in Business Management from University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. During his professional career as an optician, Wayne managed several optical dispensaries in and around the Chattanooga region. He served as both the program and clinical director of the opticianry program at Roane State Community College. After becoming "Poppie" in 2005, Wayne retired to help take care of his grandkids (Rylee & Andrew), which he stated was the joy of his life. Wayne was married to Jeanie Sue Morgan for 58-years and together, they raised their children Richard and Amy (Brad). He is also survived by his sister, Cathie Gayle Cox. Wayne was a member of Saint Thaddeus Episcopal church. The Reverend Dwight Henderson will conduct a graveside memorial service on Friday, November 7, 2025 at Chattanooga National Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Wayne's honor to the Tennessee State Veteran's Home at 1940 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311.