By Ralphine Major

“We have already recognized the six seniors who started for Gibbs in 1964-65,” former Eagles Coach Bob Dagley said. “Now, I would like to tell you about five other members of that team who played a big part in the success of the team.”

First was Lynn Miller, another senior. “Lynn saw limited playing time mainly because of sprained ankles,” the coach remembers. He recalls another important point about the player who wore No. 14. “Lynn was a hustler, and I think his quick starts contributed to his ankle problems,” Dagley said. “He had good speed and could drive to the basket as well as anyone.” The coach recalls that No. 14 had a good shot—but, because of his height, had to free himself from the defense to be able to shoot.

What Lynn remembers most about Coach Dagley is that he treated all the players fairly.  “I loved Coach Dagley,” No. 14 added.  “He showed respect for all of us, and the coach taught us a lot that would help us later in life.”

I got to meet Lynn and his family at the team’s reunion last fall. He is married to the former Blenda Jo Tindell, who also played basketball. The high school sweethearts graduated in ‘65 and married the same year. They have two sons, two daughters, and nine grandchildren. One daughter, Lea Ann, followed in her parents’ athletic footsteps. She helped with athletic training for the Gibbs football team before and after she graduated from Carson-Newman University with a degree in athletic training. I was impressed that Leann homeschools her two children, and her brother’s five children are homeschooled, as well.

Lynn is a dedicated employee of 40 years at Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) and Blenda had a career In retail.  The Millers make their home in the Gibbs Community and are long-time members of Clear Springs Baptist Church where Lynn serves as Director of the Mission House.

Lynn, Blenda, and one of their sons can always be found working at the Mission House anytime there is an event.  I know the work at the Mission House is the kind of church and community service that makes the former coach proud!

(This is No. 30 in the Gibbs Eagles’ series.)