Johnny Ray Presley

Johnny Ray Presley, age 62, Russellville, passed away suddenly on Monday, July 07, 2025. Johnny Ray met the love of his life, Symantha, while riding on the strip in downtown Russellville and from that point, it was always Sam & Johnny Ray. Their favorite song was “Cherish” by Prince and they cherished life together, enjoying the good times, the bad times, and spending 40 years together. They worked side by side in construction. He was a loving man who loved the Lord and attending church. He loved his wife, his children, his grandchildren and his dog Becky very much and he was the happiest when they were all around him. His children could do no wrong, and he was so proud when Sam was in the military. He was a work-acholic and was the hardest working man around. Even when he was sick, he was trying to get back to work. He worked at Morin in Decatur as a millwright. He had such a mechanical sense, working on motor pumps, and could fix anything. He was a quiet man who did not like attention, but he would do anything possible to help someone. He enjoyed his swimming pool, riding four wheelers, going to the races, watching wrestling, and was a devoted Alabama fan. He was very patient, never getting in a hurry but always making sure he was doing things the right way. He wasn’t just a husband, a father, or even a grandfather; he was a teacher to everyone and a shoulder to cry on. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 40 years Symantha Gernay Potts Presley; children, Jonathan Ray Presley (Alison Oliver); Samuel Joseph Presley (Stephanie), April LeShae Presley; special son-in-law, Patrick Shane Flanigan; grandchildren, Landon Ray Presley, Levi Shane Flanigan, Kimber Tate Presley, Hadlee Kate Presley, Scarlett Renea Thomas, Willow Kade Presley; siblings, Debbie Champion, James Presley, Christy Presley Garrett, Thomas Presley, step-brother, Ronald Hollins (Melba), step-sister; Leann Hollins Fisher; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny Franklin &Virginia Lee (Tharp) Presley; grandson, Brantlee Ray Presley; brothers, Ronnie Presley, Baby Brown; grandparents, Clarence & Della Presley; and niece, Holly Tharp. The visitation will be 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Friday, July 11, 2025, at Spry Memorial Chapel. The funeral will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel with Bro. Jason Thorn and Bro. Darren Sparks officiating the service. The burial will be at East Franklin Cemetery. The pallbearers will be Sam Presley, William Washington, Justin Harris, Dylan Kasberg, Nick Hicks, Chase Hicks, Alan Hicks. The honorary pallbearers will be Landon Ray Presley and Levi Flanigan. Spry Memorial Chapel assisted the family. To give private condolences, please visit our website at www.sprymemorialchapel.com.

Johnny Ray Presley

July 6, 1964 - July 7, 2025

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