Dr. David Mack Fouts, 74

Dr. David Mack Fouts, 74, (Jan. 1, 1952 - July 24, 2026) entered the presence of his Savior after a life marked by unwavering faith, devoted scholarship, and deep love for his family. His greatest passion was Jesus Christ and the study and teaching of God’s Word. His life was a testimony to his belief that knowing Scripture transforms lives, and he dedicated himself to helping others grow in their understanding of the Bible.

Dr. Fouts earned his Doctor of Theology (Th.D) from Dallas Theological seminary, 1992) and faithfully served as a professor at Dallas Theological Seminary and Bryan College, where he influenced countless students through his wisdom, humor, and love for teaching. He also led archaeological study tours to Israel, bringing the history and geography of the Bible to life for those who traveled with him.

An accomplished author, Dr. Fouts wrote two books and was respected for his thoughtful scholarship and commitment to biblical truth. Beyond academia, he enjoyed a lifelong fascination with numismatics. He served as Bourse Chairman of the coin clubs in Knoxville, Cookeville, Dayton, and Crossville. He owned a coin shop on the square in McMinnville, Courthouse Emporium, for several years, where he shared his knowledge and enthusiasm with collectors and friends alike.

David loved to travel, always eager to experience new places and cultures. Yet some of his happiest moments were spent at home surrounded by those he loved. Family game nights were treasured traditions filled with laughter, friendly competition, and lasting memories. He loved each member of his family deeply, and nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his grandchildren and his precious great-granddaughter, RaeLynn.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Esther Cash of 15 years. His children from a previous marriage, estranged daughter, from Soddy Daisy, Heidi (Justin Jones), grandson Jackson Carter Smith, granddaughters Mila Jones and Madelyn Jones; his beloved son, Jason Karl Fouts (Chattanooga). His beloved stepdaughter, Leanne Cash and her children, Cameron Havener, (Jordan), Rylan Havener, and Ellie Havener, and his stepson, Jason Cash. He also leaves behind his many extended family members, dear friends, former students, colleagues, and all whose lives were enriched by his teaching and example.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Willard Eugene Fouts and Patsy Fouts Cocklin (Dale). His sister, Kathleen Fouts Towell also preceded David. His beloved younger sisters, Nancy Rolin and Susan Towell live in Texas. Their children and grandchildren were also loved by Uncle David.

Dr. Fouts will be remembered for his brilliant mind, generous heart, adventurous spirit, contagious love of learning, and steadfast devotion to Christ. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the students he mentored, the family he cherished, and the enduring truth of God’s Word that he so faithfully proclaimed. He will be dearly missed by all those who knew him and loved him. He is home now…

Matthew 25:21 “His Lord said unto him, well done thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”

Online condolences may be left at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home and High’s Cremations, Inc. in McMinnville are in charge of arrangements.

Main Street Journal

July 29, 2026