Jimmy Ray “Cephus” Malone, 82, of Goodlettsville, TN entered his eternal heavenly home peacefully on May 26, 2025.
Born on August 6, 1942 in Old Hickory, Tennessee, he was the son of Howard Charles Malone and Lela Brown. Jim was known for his vibrant sense of humor and his passion for sports- especially Vanderbilt Baseball and the Atlanta Braves.
Jim was raised in Old Hickory and he graduated from Dupont High School where he developed his love of sports. Jim went on to graduate from Middle Tennessee State University earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Education. He then embarked on an influential teaching and coaching career at Joelton Middle School. As a football coach and girls’ basketball coach, he not only led teams to several city championships, but he also inspired countless students by instilling values of teamwork, discipline, and integrity in each young life he touched.
Jim married Martha Forney on June 13, 1980 and they enjoyed their blended family life with 4 sons. They spent lots of time and hard work on renovating an old barn that turned into the most unique, quaint little home on the hill. They made many memories there while living the simple country life. Porch rockers and swings, bonfires, deer and nature watching, family and friend gatherings were some of their most treasured times.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Charles “Unk” Malone, his stepson Randy Durden, and his grandson Kody Malone.
Jim is survived by his wife Martha, sons Bo Malone (Tyra), Clay Malone (Alison), stepson Michael Durden (Michelle), daughter in law Laura Durden who gets special thanks for being a wonderful help of caregiving during these last 5 years, grandchildren Kelci Gibson, Karli Barksdale, Grace Martin, Halle Malone, Hunter Malone, Davis Durden, John Durden, Trevor Durden, and 4 great grandchildren all of whom brought him great joy.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025 at Christ Worship Center in White House, TN. https://www.cremcoservices.com
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Murfreesboro Baseball Association: 1029 Shoreham St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130.
For more obituaries visit https://davidsoncountysource.com/obituaries/
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