John Autry

John Dolen Autry, 74, died Monday, Aug. 18, 2014, after battling cancer and a heart condition. Known for his kindness, generosity and sense of humor, he was loved by all who knew him. Born in Chickamauga, Ga., he overcame great adversity throughout his life from birth, due to Stargardts (juvenile macular degeneration) leaving him legally blind by his teens. He persevered and built a successful electronics communications company in Atlanta. After retiring to Dunlap he enjoyed metal, woodworking, helping many in his community and was a former board member of Sequatchie Cancer Support Network. He was preceded in death by son, John Edward Autry; parents, John Calvin and Elizabeth Autry; two sisters, Marcel Kittle and Patricia Nichols. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Rachel Autry; daughters, Patricia (Lee Spain) Austin, Cynthia (John) Roberson, Melissa Autry; grandchildren, John Franklin (Charlotte) Autry, SSgt Robert (Meredith) Eckard USMC, Rachel Caylin Austin, Jacob Evans; three great-grandchildren, Mason and Timothy Eckard and Wyatt Autry. Memorial services will be held 2 p.m. CDT Saturday in the funeral home chapel with Rev. David Autry officiating. Online condolences can be made at www.reedfamilyfh.com. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in his name to Sequatchie Cancer Support Network, PO Box 306, Dunlap, TN 37327. Arrangements by Standefer-Reed Funeral Home, 50 May Road, Dunlap. Family will receive friends 4-8 p.m. CDT today.