Jesse Jay Beatley's Obituary
Jesse Jay Beatley Jr., known by those who loved him as “Sunny,” of Bartlett, TN, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on January 9, 1950, Sunny lived a life marked by kindness, humor, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Sunny was the beloved husband of Donna Gambill Beatley, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and partnership. He was a proud and devoted father to his daughters Penny Camp (Kevin), Heather Beatley (Donnie), Amanda Spencer (Harrell), and Ashley Chafin (Drew). His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his sister, Becky Nelson, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Jesse Jay and Josephine Beatley, his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Marvin and Beverly Gambill, his sister, Betsy Flynn, sister-in-law, Debra Dennehy, and brother-in-law, Frank Nelson.
He retired from AutoZone after 35 years of dedicated service, where he was respected for his strong work ethic, reliability, and friendly nature.
A man of many passions, Sunny loved playing golf, bowling, playing pool, and manning the grill as the family’s beloved “grill master.” His cookouts were legendary, filled with good food and laughter. He also enjoyed giving back to his community, serving as a longtime volunteer at the FedEx St. Jude Classic and proudly participating as a judge at the world-famous Memphis in May Barbecue Contest, roles that perfectly combined his love for people, good food, and great fun.
He had a contagious smile and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Whether offering a helping hand or just enjoying a quiet moment with loved ones, Sunny brought light and love into every space he entered.
He will be deeply missed by his family and friends and remembered always for his gentle strength, sense of humor, and boundless love.
Though he has left this world, Sunny’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
The family invites friends to gather Saturday July 26, 2025 at 2:00pm for a Celebration of Life to be held at Windyke Country Club 8535 Winchester RD.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in his memory, a cause close to his heart.
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