Jimmy R Nance

Jimmy "Ruel" Nance, a loving father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee, at the age of 79. Born on August 11, 1946, in Big Springs, Tennessee, Ruel dedicated 32 years of his life to his career as a machinist at TVA.

Ruel was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Anna Mae Sewell Nance, and siblings Roy Nance, Emma Sue Nance, Lester Carl "LC" Nance, and Iva Mae Nance Tyler. His memory will forever be etched in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Ruel was of the Baptist faith and a man of many passions and interests. An avid fisherman, he cherished every moment spent on the water. In addition to fishing, he enjoyed rebuilding and working on vehicles, racing cars, hunting and bragging on his daughter and granddaughters all of which provided him with endless joy. Ruel was also known for his storytelling; he loved to recount tales from his past, often bringing laughter and warmth to those around him. His favorite places to gather included Angie's Diner, Hardees, and Decatur Barber Shop.

Ruel leaves behind his beloved daughter, Shelia (Dwayne) Liner; granddaughters, Addison (Tillmon) Devaney and Ashlyn Liner. He also is survived by his sister, Fay Buchanan, his identical twin brother, Nuel Nance, and many nieces and nephews and a special best friend since the third grade, Ralph Buchanan.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, September 10 from 5 P.M. to 8 P.M. at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, Athens, TN.

A Masonic funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, September 11th with Rev. Travis Shaver officiating.

Interment will follow the service in Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery.