Kermit Forkum, born on September 18, 1920, and passing on December 17, 1993, was a legendary figure in the realm of high school sports whose contributions earned him an induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 1999. As a dedicated teacher and coach at Jackson County High School from 1956 to 1970, Forkum left an indelible mark on the school's athletic program. Under his guidance, the boys’ basketball team achieved a remarkable record of 322 wins against only 64 losses. Highlighting this tenure were two TSSAA State Championships claimed in 1964 and 1968, with the 1963-64 team going undefeated in their regular season with a 32-0 record. Forkum also coached the girls' basketball team from 1956 to 1959, securing a respectable record of 67-32, and led them to a TSSAA State Championship in 1958.

Following his successful coaching career, Forkum transitioned into administrative roles within the educational system. From 1970 to 1982, he served as the Attendance Supervisor for Jackson County, further demonstrating his commitment to the region's education and athletic communities. His dedication to local education was underscored through his seven-year tenure on the Jackson County School Board from 1982 to 1988.

Kermit Forkum's legacy extends beyond his wins and losses; the Jackson County High School Gymnasium was named in his honor, a testament to his lasting impact. His recognitions include receiving the first "Willie Hudson Award" from The Tennessean in 1964 as the outstanding coach in Middle Tennessee. He also contributed to the broader coaching community, serving on the UPI and AP Board of coaches and sports writers for two years and lecturing at coaching clinics at TTU and MTSU in 1966 and 1967. Forkum's contributions to TSSAA and the development of high school sports in Tennessee were fundamental to his 1999 Hall of Fame induction, commemorating a career that profoundly shaped high school athletics in the state.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1999
Category: Coach