Thomas Ray Tummins, age 75, of McEwen, TN, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Skyline Medical Center. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, September 13, 2024, at Taylor Funeral Home in Dickson, officiated by Bro. Charles Potter. Interment will follow at Fews Chapel Cemetery in McEwen. Visitation will be on Thursday, September 12, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Friday from 11:00 AM until the time of service.
Born on December 1, 1948, in McEwen, Ray was one of eleven children of Willie Henry Tummins and Lola Lee Berryman Tummins. He graduated from McEwen High School and later married the love of his life, Sherry James, embarking on a beautiful journey that lasted over five decades. Ray had a deep and abiding faith in his Lord and Savior. He attended McEwen First Free Will Baptist Church, until his health made it difficult. Even then, Ray's faith never wavered, and he made sure to watch services online.
A man of incredible work ethic, Ray was known for his generosity, humility, and kindness. He led by example, always striving to provide for his family and give his children and grandchildren the best opportunities possible. After over 30 years of dedicated service, Ray retired from DuPont.
Sports were a lifelong passion for Ray. For many years, his backyard was transformed into a softball field where countless games were played. In retirement, Ray found joy in spending time outdoors, especially on his farm, where he enjoyed hunting and all that nature had to offer. His family, especially his children and grandchildren, meant the world to him. Ray’s home was always open to others, whether it was for summer fun, holidays, or game nights. It was here that he earned the beloved nicknames “Big Ray” and “Popsicle Ray” from his many nephews and nieces.
Ray’s greatest pride and joy, however, were his granddaughters; Lola and Lottie. “Pawdy” never missed a chance to support them—watching Lola as she played softball, basketball and volleyball and Lottie as she danced and cheered from the sidelines. He was their biggest fan and loved every second he got to spend with them.
In addition to his parents, Ray is preceded in death by his siblings: Billy Tummins, Walter Tummins, Delmar Tummins, Bobby Tummins, Imogene Tummins, Buddy Tummins, and Betty Ann Potter.
Ray is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Sherry Tummins; his children, Brandon Tummins, and Ashley Webb (Stephen); granddaughters, Lola Sophia and Lottie Estella; his brothers, Charlie Tummins (Nancy), and Tony Tummins (Rita); his sister, Rhonda Tummins (Robert); sisters-in-law, Naomi Tummins and Linda Sutton; and brother-in-law, Charles Potter. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss him dearly.
For those desiring, memorials may be made to "MHS Softball" at McEwen High School (attn: Heather Nix), in memory of Ray Tummins to help with additions and improvements to the softball facility.
