Marcus named grand marshal of WCHS homecoming parade

The White County High School athletic department and administration have named the 2025 Grand Marshal of the Tammy “Pistol” Wilhite Memorial Homecoming Parade, Dewayne Marcus (Class of 1984). Marcus was a star running back for the Warriors in the early 80’s. Playing for the legendary Donnie Farley and offensive coordinator Jimmy Maynard, Marcus’ performance on the field for the Warriors ranks third all-time for the Maroon and Grey.

Marcus is the son of J.B. and Maurine Marcus. He grew up in White County with his siblings, Sabra and Richard. He is the proud father of Anthony and Alexandria and grandfather to Athena, Kotie, and Lakeland. Dewayne and wife Dana are proud of their family and ties to WCHS.

Dewayne developed a love for football while attending WCHS and playing for Coach Donnie Farley (Class of 1960) and Coach Jimmy Maynard. Coach Maynard described Marcus as a “tough kid with great speed who was always pleasant and was a great leader and teammate.” WCHS Hall of Fame member Tim Richardson (Class of 1985) played quarterback and was joined in the backfield by Dewayne. Richardson described his former teammate as “intense, a hard worker, all-around good running back, great blocker, and did everything you asked.”

During his time at WCHS, Dewayne earned a place on the legendary team known as the Awesome 28. These young men became the first team to make the state playoffs (1982). Marcus compiled a great list of stats while carrying the ball for the Warriors. Stats were not a priority for Dewayne. One of his fondest memories was that the team became a family. He stated, “None of us could have accomplished much alone, but when we worked together, we could achieve greatness.” This sense of unity and brotherhood became a foundation for his life that he has kept with him his whole life.

While being a student-athlete at WCHS, many teachers and staff members made an impact on his life. One teacher that stands out and made a lasting impression was Flavious McBride, a much-loved English teacher at WCHS for many years. He remembers his unique style of making learning fun, by incorporating music from Dolly Parton and cracking jokes. McBride brought laughter into learning, and Dewayne has never forgotten it.

After high school, Dewayne played football at Tennessee Tech University and later decided to serve in the United States Army. He currently serves as the production manager at Wilson Sporting Goods, in Sparta, and owner of Quality Fence and Pools, a successful business he has run for over 30 years.

Dewayne prides himself in staying grounded in what matters most: faith, family, and friendship. He also cherishes the memories and lessons he learned on the gridiron. He often says, “I have truly been blessed by the people I have known, places I have been, and the lessons I have learned.”

WCHS is proud to honor Dewayne as this year’s grand marshal.

“Having known Dewayne for over 40 years, I am proud to have Dewayne come back to WCHS and be honored for his great career in the Maroon and Gray,” stated Principal Greg Wilson (Class of 1985).

WCHS invites everyone out to the homecoming parade, on Oct. 9.