John Phillip Torbett

Mr. John Phillip Torbett, 59, of Piney Flats passed away Friday, May 6, 2016, at his home. Phillip was a lifelong resident of Piney Flats. He was the son of the late Farrell and Anna Jane Torbett. Phillip graduated from Sullivan East High School. He also graduated from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Animal Science. Phillip was a lifelong farmer and the owner of F.J. Torbett Plant Farm in Piney Flats. Phillip had a passion for all things related to agriculture. He served on numerous agricultural boards and committees over the years. In 1984, Phillip received the Tennessee Farm Bureau, Sullivan County Young Farmer of the Year Award. Phillip was a member of Edgefield United Methodist Church. He was a dedicated member of the Edgefield Mens Club and could often be found in the kitchen cooking for the monthly mens breakfast and other meals. He also loved to make apple butter for the Edgefield UMC Lords Acre Sale. Phillip dedicated his life to helping others in any way that he could. Phillip was also a lifelong Democrat and was very active in the Democratic Party. In addition to his parents, one brother, Steven J. Torbett, who died serving the United States of America in the Vietnam War, preceded Phillip in death. Survivors include his wife, Denise Torbett; his son, John Colby Torbett; one brother, Richard 'Dicky' Torbett and wife Marcia Torbett; several nieces and nephews and numerous close friends. The family of Mr. John Phillip Torbett will receive friends from 5 to 7 PM Monday May 9, 2016, at Edgefield United Methodist Church, 745 N. Pickens Bridge Road, Piney Flats, TN 37686. The funeral service will follow at 7 PM with Pastor Estel Williams and Rev. Eric Spoon officiating. The graveside committal service will be conducted at 11 AM Tuesday in the New Bethel Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Piney Flats. Active pallbearers will be: Johnny Smith, Bill Smith, Mike Oliver, George Kendrick, Hershel Glover, Caleb McInturf, Sam Reed, John Somich, Craig Haynie, and Clifford Hall. Ministers, family and friends are requested to meet at Edgefield United Methodist Church Tuesday by 10:30 AM to go in procession to the cemetery. Memorials in honor of Mr. Torbetts life can be made to Edgefield United Methodist Church and to any research organization committed to the cure of Type 1 diabetes.