Ray Allen Nance, 57, walked hand and hand with his son into Heaven on December 6, 2024, after a battle with cancer.  He took his last breath at UT Medical Center surrounded by his family.  Ray was born August 24, 1967, to William Ray and Margaret Nance.

Ray was preceded in death by his son, Taylor Ray Nance; dad, William Ray Nance; grandparents, John and Edna Miller and Willie and Viola Nance and Shirley Shannon; and brothers, Mike Moore, Steve Moore, and Lynn Moffett.

Ray is survived by his wife of 23 years, April.  He was always working hard to make sure she was taken care of.  He would work at craft fairs, bake sales, and yard sales to make extra money for her medical needs.  His love for her was seen in all he did.  They have a love story most only dream about, and their love will continue. He is survived by his children, Devan (Trisha) Nance, Adam (Jessie) Barber-Nance, and Alexandria Lloyd; grandkids, Abby Rose, Noah, Maddy, and Emery; mom, Margaret Nance; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Judy and Charlie Moffett; sisters, Kathy Daniels and Amy (Tim) Townsend; and many nieces and nephews.

Ray loved Ice Bears hockey, Nashville Predators and Tennessee Titans.  You could see him in his jerseys supporting his teams all the time, even at the beach.  He was a great cook, there wasn't anything he couldn't cook.  If you ever got to meet Ray, you became family.  He had a heart for everyone, his smile would light up any room.  He will be missed by everyone.

Memorial services will be held 3:00 PM Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Turner Street Baptist Church, Pastor Tim Townsend and Pastor Spencer Garner officiating.  The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM Saturday at Turner Street Baptist Church, 942 Turner St. Maryville, TN 37801.