James Ray Lawley, Sr, of Powell, TN, 89, passed, Monday, January 30, 2018 at Tennova North Hospital.  James was born in St. Clair County, Alabama on August 1, 1928 to Jim & Plina Lawley. Always an athlete, In High School, he was a three sport athlete with a nickname of Smokey Joe. He played baseball, basketball, and football in high school; and later played semi pro basketball for Southern Bell. James served his country during the Korean conflict where he was an Army Corporal. After the war, James went to work as a machinist at Y-12 for the next 40 plus years.  He was a member of First Baptist Powell.  James was known as the Mayor of Powell and often hung out with his friends at the Hardie's on Clinton Highway.  He enjoyed a good game of pool and was an excellent provider for his children.

James is preceded in death by his wife, Frances; his parents, Jim & Plina Lawley; his 2 ^nd wife Dorris; and his grandson, Jimmy Hill.

He is survived by his daughter, Sheila Hill; his son, Ray Lawley; his grandchildren, Josh & Meliisa Haynes, Megan & Jasen Carney, and Ben Hill, two great grandchildren, Summer and Brandon Carney; and several other friends and family.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 3, 2018 from 1:00pm – 2:00pm at Woodhaven Funeral Home, 160 Edgemoor Rd, Powell, TN.

The family would like to thank the staff at Tennova North for their excellent care.  James always said, "Pay yourself first"

Woodhaven Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens are honored to serve the Lawley Family.