John Nance Jewell age 81 of Watertown, died Friday, May 1, 2026 at Summit Medical Center in Hermitage. Born July 19, 1944, he was the son of the late Rev. Albert Jewell and Opal Moorehead Jewell. John was preceded in death by his wife, Jan Bastin Jewell  on Jan. 5, 2016.

John was a community leader, participating and planning many community events such as his beloved Jazz Festival. He was a member of the Watertown Volunteer Fire Department serving as chief for many years where he helped to mold many young firefighters. John was a member of Wilson County and City of Watertown Planning Commission and served on the Wilson County Commission. He was a member of the Railroad Authority and served on the Watertown City Council. John also served on the Historic Watertown Committee. Professionally, he started his career as a college recruiter for Cumberland University, then moved into the world of Broadcasting where he spent time spinning records for stations such as WCOR. John owned and operated Jewell Disposal Service, Jewell Communications and Comsites. He served as WEMA Director for 6 years and as a court officer for Wilson County Sheriff Department before his retirement.

John is survived by his sons, John T. Jewell and wife, Brittany of Murfreesboro and Jeff Jewell and wife, Kristin of Allen, TX; grandchildren, Avery, Camryn, Jace, Ethan, Davis, Hadley and Noah. He also survived by his brothers, Bill Jewell and wife, Linda of Watertown and Bruce Jewell and wife, Sharon of Asheville, NC and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Watertown First Baptist Church with Bro. Mike Burns officiating. Eulogy will be given by Mayor Mike Jennings and Sheriff Terry Ashe. Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. till service time on Saturday. Pallbearers, John T. Jewell, Jeff Jewell, Bill Jewell, Bruce Jewell, Ethan Jewell and Jace Jewell. Interment will follow at Hunter Memorial Park.