Ottis Ray Dunning

McKENZIE — Ottis Ray Dunning, age 90, died on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Patriot Healthcare in Paris, Tennessee.

Ottis was born on March 2, 1936, to Hillrie and Ramele Dunning, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Delmer Dunning and Jerrell Dunning, and his sister-in-law, Sarah Dunning.

Seventy-three years ago, on July 11, 1953, he married  Marie Kelly, who survives. Others left to cherish his memory are two daughters, Dixie (Jimmy) Jobe of Dover, Tenn., and Deveeda (Clay) Clayton of Hughes, Arkansas. One sister, Audean Halley of Miss., three grandsons, Billy (Michelle) Jobe of Mt. Pleasant, Tenn, Chris (Paula) Jobe of Dover, Tenn, and Josh (Wendy) Jobe of Clarksville, Tenn. 12 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great-grandchildren, plus two expected in the fall.

Ottis was known by many as an avid musician. He never met a guitar he didn’t like. He made many friends over the years through his music, playing at a wide range of venues, events, and occasions. Ottis found joy in music and entertaining others.

A visitation will be held at Brummitt- McKenzie Funeral Home on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 12:00 PM until service time, 2:00 p.m.. Brother Larry DePriest will be officiating. Burial will follow at Enon Baptist Church Cemetery.

Grandsons will be pallbearers, and close friends will serve as honorary pallbearers.