Phillip Fulmer, the esteemed former head coach of the University of Tennessee Volunteers football team, passed away peacefully in his sleep…

Born on September 1, 1950, in Winchester, Tennessee, Phillip Edward Fulmer Jr. developed a passion for football early in life. He attended Franklin County High School, where he excelled on the football field, earning recognition for his formidable skills. His talent and dedication led him to the University of Tennessee in 1968, where he played as an offensive guard. During his collegiate playing career, Fulmer contributed to the Volunteers’ impressive 30–5 record from 1969 to 1971. The team secured the Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship in 1969, achieved an 11–1 record with a Sugar Bowl victory in 1970, and concluded the 1971 season with a 10–2 record, culminating in a Liberty Bowl win. Fulmer’s leadership on the field was recognized as he served as team co-captain in his senior year. citeturn0search1

 

 

 

**Coaching Career**

 

 

 

After graduating in 1972, Fulmer began his coaching journey as a graduate assistant at Tennessee, overseeing the freshman team’s defense and linebackers. He expanded his coaching repertoire with stints at Wichita State University and Vanderbilt University before returning to his alma mater in 1980 as an assistant coach. Over the next decade, Fulmer advanced through the coaching ranks, eventually becoming the offensive coordinator. In 1992, he was named the head coach of the Volunteers, a position he held until 2008. citeturn0search1

 

 

 

During his 17-season tenure as head coach, Fulmer amassed a remarkable record of 152 wins and 52 losses, resulting in a .745 winning percentage. Under his guidance, the Volunteers clinched two SEC championships in 1997 and 1998. The pinnacle of his coaching career came in the 1998 season when he led Tennessee to a perfect 13–0 record, culminating in a victory over Florida State in the Fiesta Bowl to secure the first Bowl Championship Series (BCS) National Championship. This achievement solidified Fulmer’s status as a coaching luminary in college football. citeturn0search1

 

 

 

**Post-Coaching Endeavors**

 

 

 

Following his coaching career, Fulmer remained actively involved in collegiate athletics and his community. In 2012, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his significant contributions to the sport. He also served as a special assistant to the athletic director at East Tennessee State University, playing a pivotal role in reinstating the university’s football program. In 2017, Fulmer returned to the University of Tennessee as a special advisor to the university president and was later appointed as the athletic director, a role he fulfilled until his retirement in 2021. citeturn0search1

 

 

 

**Legacy and Tributes**

 

 

 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Fulmer was known for his dedication to mentoring young athletes and his philanthropic efforts. He served as the national spokesperson for The Jason Foundation, an organization focused on youth suicide prevention, and was actively involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley. His commitment to community service and the development of young individuals extended his influence beyond the football field. citeturn0search8

 

 

 

Fulmer is survived by his wife, Vicky, their four children, and several grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era for Tennessee football, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and coaches. As the University of Tennessee community mourns his loss, they also celebrate the enduring impact of a man whose life was dedicated to excellence, leadership, and service.