Eric Lee Growden, age 60, of Smyrna, TN passed away on Saturday, February 1, 2025. Eric was born March 31, 1964, in San Diego, CA to the late James and Carol Growden.

Interested in electronics and computers from an early age, Eric enjoyed building things and taking them apart to see how they worked. In high school, he enjoyed math and science, and built model rockets, a hobby he picked back up as an adult. He married Donna Growden in July 1985, and together they raised two children. Throughout his life, he was well known for his sharp analytical mind, but he also had a creative side, dabbling in photography and writing. Eric studied Computer and Information Sciences at Nashville State Community College and went on to receive a BA in Management and Human Relations from Trevecca Nazarene University in 1998. He enjoyed his work in various IT and data analysis positions over the years, most recently as a Systems Analyst at Middle Tennessee State University.

Eric enjoyed learning and had a wide variety of interests that ranged from hockey to history, science and technology to disc golf, and books to video games. An introvert at heart, he felt most at home on the couch with his cats and a bowl of ice cream reading a good book on his tablet, playing games on his PS5, or spending time with his family. Countering his matter-of-fact manner, Eric was quick with a joke or a sarcastic remark. To his loved ones, he was always available to answer a question, solve a problem, or give advice, and always willing to drop everything to come to their rescue.

Eric is survived by his wife, Donna Growden; children, Bethany Growden and Andrew (Danstyn) Growden; grandchildren, Mayson Holloway, Madi Henley, and Marlo Growden; brother, Art (Mary) Growden; and nieces, Rachel (Joe) Growden and Sarah Growden.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the ACLU, Feed America, Doctors Without Borders, or the Rutherford County Cat Rescue.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.