Ronnie Ray Cumbee

Ronnie Ray Cumbee was born on November 1, 1947 in Ripplemead, Virginia to Orbey and Pauline Atkins Cumbee.  Ronnie ended his two year battle with cancer on Friday, July 10, 2026, when the Lord said he had suffered enough and called him home.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Donnie Cumbee; and seven sisters, Joann Harless, Betty Dowdy, Charlotte Hendrickson, Geneva Robinett, Patty Sessor, Barbara Langford, and Judy Hoffman; brothers-in-law, Jimmie Dowdy, Jimmy Langford, Cecil Robinett, Bob Hoffman, and Vick Sessor.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 33 years, Claudine Chandler Cumbee; son, Jeffery Wayne Cumbee and his wife Angie; daughter, Kimberly Ann Blankenship; grandsons, Jordan Blankenship and wife Susan, Cody Cumbee, and Logan Cumbee; granddaughters, Shyla Blankenship and boyfriend Josh, Ava Cumbee, and Kayli Crabtree; great-grandchildren, Lily Blankenship, Levi Dutey, Karley Dutey, and Emery Ray Blankenship; brother-in-law, Jimmy Harless; and many nieces and nephews. 

Ronnie began his military career as a soldier in the Army at the age of 18.  He fought in the Vietnam War and later was promoted to Drill Sargeant.  He retired as a Master Sargeant after his stroke in March of 1984.  After returning to Giles County, he went to work for Virginia Mountain Housing where he worked 25 years retiring in 2009.  

When Ronnie wasn't working on his professional career you could find him woodworking hunting, playing cards, or working outside and restoring old furniture.  Ronnie will always be remembered for his quick wit and smooth talking mischievous ways.  He will be dearly missed by family and friends.  Rest in Peace Ronnie, We Love You!

The family will receive friends at a time of visitation on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM in Riverview Baptist Church.  A funeral service will be conducted on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM in Riverview Baptist with Pastor Shahn Wilburn officiating.  Funeral services will conclude in a graveside service on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM in Birchlawn Burial Park where Military Honors will be presented by local American Legions and the United States Army.  A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com.  The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Cumbee family.