Justin Lee Curry

Justin Lee Curry, 69, of London, Kentucky (formerly of Harlan), passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025, in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

He is survived by his devoted wife and best friend, Betty Blevins Curry; his beloved mother, Mary Curry; and his three sons, whom he loved deeply: Justin Curry II (Laura) of Harlan, Jared Logan Curry (Amanda) of Lexington, and Jesse Curry (Sarah) of Nashville, two sisters Kay Anderson of Knoxville, Erma Morgan of Knoxville and Wayne (Pat) Curry of Harlan. He was preceded in death by his father, Sampson Curry Jr., whose example helped shape the man Justin became, and one very special brother in law, Mike Anderson.

To his five grandchildren—Jackson, Avery, Emma June, Eva Kate, and Austin—he was known simply and lovingly as Pap. They were the light of his life. He loved spending time with them telling stories, playing pranks, and reminding them just how proud he was.

Affectionately called “Coach Curry” by generations of young athletes, Justin poured his heart into coaching sports throughout the years. To him, it was never just about the game. It was about teaching life lessons—hard work, integrity, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Whether on the sidelines or in the stands, his impact was lasting, and his influence still echoes in the lives he touched.

Friends and family will gather for a graveside memorial service that will be held at Resthaven Cemetery in Harlan, Kentucky on Friday at 2:00pm, with Bowling Funeral Home overseeing arrangements. Justin’s sons and nephews Sam, Jeremiah and Jake Anderson will serve as pallbearers and his two grandsons as honorary pallbearers.

Justin—Pap, Coach, Dad, Husband, Son—was a man of quiet faith, steady presence, and boundless love. He leaves behind a family rooted in his example and a community better because he was in it.

This obituary is a courtesy to the Curry Family by the Anderson-Laws & Jones Funeral Home of Harlan.