Jimmy Ray Ferrell January 14,
1940 – October, 9, 2026
Jimmy Ray Ferrell, Pulaski, TN, known to just about everyone as Jim or Big Jim, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2026 finally free of the heavy fog of Alzheimer’s.
Born to Dovie Beatrice (Hale) and Fred Houston Ferrell on January 14, 1940 in Watertown, TN. He grew up in a big, hard-working family, surrounded by many brothers and sisters, all of whom he loved dearly. He carried this love of family with him his entire life.
Jim earned his Bachelor’s of Business Administration from Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville, TN. He was the first in his family to graduate from college, a fact of which he was very proud.
On May 27, 1967, he married the love of his life, Sandra Lee Greb. They made Pulaski, TN their forever home in 1971. Together they raised two daughters, and were blessed to share almost six decades of marriage.
Jim was a natural businessman, a true people person, so when he purchased a restaurant franchise, Scottie’s, in 1971, it was destined for success. He would rename the restaurant Jim’s Place and then later Jim’s Diner, making it uniquely his own. A place where his broad smile and easy charm made every customer feel like family.
After 30 years as a restauranteur, he sold the diner, and joined Bob White Realty as a realtor. He also enjoyed managing his portfolio of rental properties in Pulaski, work he loved that kept him very busy.
Those who knew Jim remember his generous spirit, strong work ethic, honest nature, and kind heart. Jim proudly served as a Pulaski City Alderman. He also sat on the Board of Community Bank. He was a member of the Pulaski Masonic Lodge. He was proud to support The American Red Cross by donating blood regularly, earning many recognition pins for his contributions.
A longtime member of First United Methodist Church, he served on the Financial Committee, and filled in as an Usher when needed. He also loved cooking for pancake breakfasts and ham suppers whenever he could.
He was a devoted University of Tennessee Volunteers fan. He loved watching games, especially on trips to The Hill with his sons-in-law, David and Steve. Oh, the stories that came from those trips!
Jim LOVED becoming a grandpa to Katherine, Matt, and Elizabeth! Pap was always ready to climb trees, pull wagons, push swings at the park, feed ducks, or go for ice cream at Reeves. He lit up when asked about them, and was always quick to share pictures.
Jim is survived by his wife, Sandra; his daughters, Lisa (David) Yenzer; Lori (Steve) Robinson; grandchildren, Katherine Yenzer, Matt Robinson, and Elizabeth Yenzer; brother, Roger (Glenda) Ferrell; brother-in-law, Donnie (Linda) Greb; sisters, Cynthia Vaughn and Debbie Webber; many beloved nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Dovie Ferrell; sisters, Juanita Ferrell, Jean Jones, Dot Judkins, and Pat Ferrell; brothers, Bill, Jerry, and Donald Ferrell.
A Celebration of Life is being planned for January 2027 to honor a man who meant so much to so many. Those who knew him are welcome to come and share a memory, a laugh, or a story.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to First United Methodist Church in Pulaski, TN.
