John Ray Hunley

KINGSPORT – John Ray Hunley, 82, went to be with the Lord on Monday, December 7, 2020 after a courageous battle of cancer.

John was a lifelong resident of Hawkins and Sullivan County. He started his law enforcement career as a police officer at the City of Church Hill and retired as the Police Chief of Mount Carmel. John was a member of Hilltop Mission Church. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. John was the rock of the family.

He preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Mae Hunley; daughters, Janice Nickels and Mary Sue Hunley Bishir; brothers, George Hunley, Keller Hunley, Carter Hunley, and Garney Hunley.

John is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Kathryn Hunley; children, Cathy Emery (Tom), Tony Branham (Tona), and Ann Branham; several grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, special friend, Jimmy Johnson and family; several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at the Johnson-Arrowood Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 7:00 PM in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Tim Nelson. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, December 11 at Hilltop Mission Cemetery. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the funeral home by 12:00 PM to go in procession.

Pallbearers will be family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Johnson-Arrowood Funeral Home to help with the final expenses, 320 Grandview Street Church Hill, TN 37642.