Ronald “Ronnie” G. Nunley Sr., 81 of Sequatchie was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 14. Born on October 21, 1944 in Whitwell, he was the son of James “Big Jim” Nunley and Naomi Della Turner Nunley. A man known for his warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for others, Ronnie built a life rooted in faith, family, and community. He was married to his beloved wife Vicki Lynn May Nunley and together they shared a lifetime of devotion and cherished memories. Ronnie was a member of the National Guard, a commitment that reflected his deep sense of responsibility and honor. After many years of hard work, he retired from owning the Mountain Market, where he became well‑known for his friendly spirit and his inventive culinary creations—including the famous Mountain Burger and the beloved Spam can biscuit. He attended Sequatchie Mountain Baptist Church, where his presence and fellowship were treasured. Ronnie loved meeting new people, striking up conversations, and sharing stories. He enjoyed long walks, tinkering with anything he could get his hands on, and spending peaceful hours on his tractor—simple joys that brought him great contentment. Above all, Ronnie was a devoted father, grandfather, and great‑grandfather. His family was the heart of his world, and he poured his love into them generously and without hesitation. He was a great man—humble, genuine, and deeply loved by all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the memories he created, and the love he gave so freely.
Ronnie is preceded in death by his father James “Big Jim” Nunley, mother Naomi Della Turner Nunley, son-in-law Eddie Hatfield, brothers Jimmy Ray Nunley and Sammy Nunley, as well as brother-in-law Rusty May.
Left to cherish his memories are his wife Vicki Lynn May Nunley of 55 years, son Ronald (Nellie) G. Nunley Jr., daughter Samantha (Bill) Kelley, sisters Judy Carol Elleman and Shirley Faye (John) Watkins, grandchildren Aurora (Blake) Hutchins, Abagael Hatfield, George (Liceeth) Nunley and Cassidy (Ethan) Pate, great grandchildren Anneka Jade Hutchins and Brooklyn Pate, several nieces, nephews, other family members and special friends.
The family would like to thank Amedysis Hospice and special caregiver Clellene “Red” Nunley for their great care.
Visitation was on Friday, January 16 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday, January 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Tate Funeral Home in Jasper.
A Masonic service was held prior to the funeral services on Saturday, January 17 at Tate Funeral Home in Jasper.
Funeral services were on Saturday, January 17 at 1 p.m. in the Chapel of Tate Funeral Home in Jasper, with Pastor Roger Webb who officiated.
Ronnie was laid to rest on Saturday, January 17 at Pine Grove Cemetery in Jasper immediately after the funeral services were held.
Pallbearers were the Shadrick Boys, Wally, Elmer Lee, Michael, Doug, Matthew and Bill Kelley.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Tate Funeral Home, LLC, 950 Mel Dixon Lane, Jasper, Tennessee 37347, 423-942-9500.
The Marion Tribune – January 22, 2026