Alton Ray Honea, 78, of Taft, Tennessee, passed away on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024 at Lincoln Medical Center. He was born in Lincoln County, Tennessee, on Oct. 11, 1945, son of the late T.C. and Lizzie Vaughn Honea. He was a loving husband, son, brother, dad, granddad and friend.

After dedicating 28 years to the Lincoln County Highway Department, he embraced retirement with the same passion and energy. His days were filled with a diverse range of activities — from farming hay, cattle, goats, and chickens to enjoying the thrill of coon and bird hunting. He had a knack for fixing things, whether it was tractors or lawnmowers, and a particular fondness for Double Mint Gum. Ray was affectionately known by many names: “Egg Man,” “Uncle Ray,” “Granddaddy,” and, in his younger years, “Babe.” Mornings often found him on his front porch, watching the sunrise — a simple pleasure that brought him great joy. He was not only a devoted father and grandfather but also a treasured hunting partner and goat keeper. His early childhood memories included playing instruments with his family and a love for buck dancing, where he could truly “cut a rug.”

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by two brothers, Bobby and Ricky Honea; and sister, Vicky Towry.

Mr. Honea is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Doris Johnson Honea; daughter, Marie (David) Brown; son, Steven Ray Honea; grandson, Neil (Shasta) Brown; great-granddaughters, Lexy and Raylee; sister, Linda Honea Blankenship; aunt, Frances Thompson; uncle, James (Brenda) Vaughn; and several nieces, nephew, cousins and friends.

Funeral services were Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, in the chapel of Gallant-Riverview Funeral Home with the Rev. Randy Nichols and the Rev. Sonny Moore officiating. Burial followed in Prosperity Cemetery. Gallant-Riverview Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Alton Ray Honea.