Jimmy Ray Cantrell, better known to all as “J.R.,” passed away in the emergency room of Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital, in Sparta, on Sept. 12, 2025.
J.R. was born July 29, 1942, to James Ray and Dorothy Leona Cope Cantrell.
He proudly served in the United States Air Force, in Vietnam. Following his military service, he returned to Tennessee and entered the workforce that spanned across many positions. J.R. spent time farming and freight brokering, then served as a DeKalb County deputy sheriff and a City of Smithville policeman. Ultimately, he was the owner and operator of J.R.’s Place, on the Doyle Highway. An avid golf and lake enthusiast, he also enjoyed gardening and raising animals, including his goats. J.R. will be fondly remembered for always being ready for a good time.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Nancy Phifer.
Survivors include his son, James Robbe Cantrell and wife Amy, of Lascassas; grandchildren, Sloane Cantrell, Tate Cantrell, both of Lascassas; brother, Jerry D. Cantrell, of Cookeville; niece, Jill Moore and husband Jeff; nephews, Jason Cantrell and wife Tamara, Kurt Phifer and wife Ginger; and longtime companion, Kim Smiley and her daughter, Monica Phillips
Hunter Funeral Home was entrusted with J.R.’s cremation. A celebration of life will be 2 p.m., Sept. 28, 2025, at Hunter Funeral Home, with military honors by the Veterans’ Honor Guard. The family will receive friends noon-2 p.m.
Hunter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
