Jane Tubbs Moody Cherry

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jane Tubbs Moody Cherry, 80, of Dyersburg, Tennessee, who left this world on Saturday, October 19, 2024. She was surrounded by her family at Select Specialty Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee.

Jane was born on January 12, 1944, in Boothspoint, Tennessee, to the late Fred Burns Tubbs and Lottie Lucas Tubbs. She was welcomed into eternal rest by her beloved parents and five cherished siblings: three sisters—Andrella Tubbs, Martha Tubbs, and Bobbie Tubbs Berkley—and two brothers, Tommy Tubbs and Richard “Grassy” Tubbs. For over 30 years, Jane poured her heart into her work as a hairdresser, sharing joy and connection with each client. In the fall of 1983, she and her son embarked on a new journey together, opening J.C. Bel-Aire Bowling Lanes in Dyersburg, Tennessee. Their bond grew stronger as they worked side by side, navigating the challenges of business and building a community around their shared passion. Jane took pride in community involvement through the bowling alley. Two of her most favorite times were facilitating the annual St. Jude Bowling Tournament and organizing the Special Olympics Day, where local schools brought kids to enjoy a day of bowling and fun. Jane retired from the business in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of fun and laughter.

Without a doubt, at the center of Jane’s life was her family. She found her greatest joy in being a mother and grandmother. "Big Mama" cherished every moment spent with her family, whether it was sharing stories, celebrating milestones, having dinner together, or simply being present. No matter the distance or time, she reassured them that Big Mama would always be there, ready to rush to their side at a moment’s notice as needed. 

She is survived by her son, Fred Roland Moody Cherry (Penny) of Dyersburg, and her two granddaughters, Leah Jayne Vaughn (Hunter) and Lara Beth Cherry, and her two great grandchildren, Slayton Wayne Vaughn and Layla Jayne Vaughn who lovingly referred to her as “Big Mama.” 

A Celebration of Life Visitation for Jane will be held on Thursday, October 24, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Johnson-Williams Funeral Home in Newbern, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at johnsonwilliamsfuneralhome.com. Johnson-Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jane Tubbs Moody Cherry.

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