Mr. Jimmy Ray Cantrell, better known to all as "J.R." passed away at 10:50pm in the emergency room of St. Thomas Highlands Hospital on Friday, September 12, 2025.

J.R. was born July 29, 1942 to the late 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 is also preceded in death by his sister Nancy Phifer.

Survivors include his son James Robbe Cantrell and wife Amy of Lascassas, TN

Grandchildren: Sloane Cantrell and 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

Longtime companion: Kim Smiley and her daughter Monica Phillips

Hunter Funeral Home has been entrusted with J.R.'s cremation and a Celebration of Life will be conducted 2:00pm September 28, 2025 from the Chapel of Hunter Funeral Home with military honors by the Veterans' Honor Guard. The family will receive friends after 12:00pm on the 28th.