Knoxville TN, October 27, 2025
News Summary
Dr. David George Gerkin, a revered ophthalmologist and community leader in Knoxville, TN, has passed away at the age of 88. His career spanned decades, during which he co-founded University Eye Specialists and served in numerous significant roles within the medical and military fields. A dedicated family man, Dr. Gerkin leaves behind his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and a legacy of commitment to eye care and community health.
KNOXVILLE, TN – Esteemed ophthalmologist David George Gerkin, M.D., known for his significant contributions to the field of eye care, passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the age of 88. Gerkin died at the Ben Atchley Tennessee State Veterans Home, where he had been residing.
Dr. Gerkin’s impressive career began with his undergraduate studies at Indiana State University, followed by his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Ophthalmology at the Brooke Army Medical Center, marking the beginning of a distinguished path in medical practice. He co-founded University Eye Specialists, where he practiced for 29 years, and served as the medical director of the Tennessee Valley Eye Center from its inception until 2024.
Throughout his career, Gerkin took on various leadership roles, including serving as president of the Knoxville Academy of Medicine, the Tennessee Medical Association, and the Southeastern Eye Bank Association of America. His extensive service also included being the chief of staff at UT Medical Center and an associate clinical professor of ophthalmology. Additionally, he edited the Tennessee Medicine – State Medical Journal for 21 years, disseminating critical information within the medical community.
Dr. Gerkin proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1971, retiring with the rank of colonel. His military service continued as he held the position of Brigadier General of the Tennessee State Guard and served as State Surgeon from 2001 until his passing. He was also the Waiver Authority for the United States Army for 15 years, contributing to military healthcare protocols.
Beyond his medical and military achievements, Gerkin was deeply committed to his community. He served on the board of the Interfaith Health Clinic for 21 years, including a term as board chair, and was involved in the Remote Area Medical (RAM) initiatives. His spiritual life was fulfilled through active participation at Lake Hills Presbyterian Church, where he notably sang in the choir.
Dr. Gerkin is survived by his wife of 49 years, Sharon Gerkin, and daughters: Deborah Gerkin, Rebecca Doody, and Melanie Best Burgess. He leaves behind numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Christina, Samantha, Sarah, Emily, Olivia, Alex, Lindsey, Hayden, Alexander, Maxwell, Bennett, and Barrett. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mary Gerkin, and his son, Thomas David.
A celebration of Dr. Gerkin’s life will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Lake Hills Presbyterian Church. Friends may begin gathering at noon, followed by a service and committal at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Interfaith Health Center or Lake Hills Presbyterian Church. Online condolences for the Gerkin family can be left at www.berryfuneralhome.com.
FAQ
What is the date of Dr. David Gerkin’s passing?
Dr. David George Gerkin, M.D., passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025.
Where did Dr. Gerkin die?
He died at the Ben Atchley Tennessee State Veterans Home at the age of 88.
What degrees did Dr. Gerkin earn?
Dr. Gerkin earned his undergraduate degree from Indiana State University and received his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine.
What leadership roles did Dr. Gerkin hold during his career?
Dr. Gerkin held leadership roles including president of the Knoxville Academy of Medicine, the Tennessee Medical Association, and the Southeastern Eye Bank Association of America.
When will the celebration of his life take place?
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Lake Hills Presbyterian Church.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | David George Gerkin, M.D. |
| Date of Passing | October 24, 2025 |
| Age | 88 |
| Place of Death | Ben Atchley Tennessee State Veterans Home |
| Medical Education | Indiana State University (Undergraduate), Indiana University School of Medicine (Medical Degree) |
| Career Highlights | Founding Member of University Eye Specialists, Medical Director of Tennessee Valley Eye Center, Editor of Tennessee Medicine – State Medical Journal |
| Military Service | U.S. Army (1963-1971), Brigadier General of Tennessee State Guard |
| Survived By | Wife Sharon, Daughters Deborah, Rebecca, Melanie, Grandchildren, and Great-Grandchildren |
| Celebration Date | November 15, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: David Gerkin
- Knox TN Today: Dr. David Gerkin
- Knox News: David Gerkin Obituary
- Legacy.com: David Gerkin Obituary
- Knox News: Health Care Heroes
- Wikipedia: Ophthalmology
- Google Search: David Gerkin
- Google Scholar: David Gerkin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ophthalmology
- Google News: David Gerkin
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
