Jeremy Chad Spray, loving father, son, and brother, passed from this life on December 2, 2025, at the age of 50. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Higgins Funeral Home with Pastor Ron Wood officiating. Burial will follow in Prospect Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Higgins Funeral Home.
Chad was born on June 21, 1975, in Lincoln County, TN, to the late Jerry Wayne Spray and Sybile Milstead Spray, who survives. Known affectionately as “Smiley,” his infectious grin and joyful spirit lit up every room he entered. Chad loved hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. If it had tires, he wanted to drive it, and he drove it like he stole it. He took pride in keeping his belongings neat and clean, and he had a natural way with animals, especially horses. Chad never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to fix almost anything. Generous to the core, he would give you anything he had if he thought you needed it.
Above all, Chad loved his children dearly and was incredibly proud of each of them. His faith was just as important to him, and he never hesitated to share with others about Jesus and heaven.
Survivors include his mother, Sybile Spray; his children, Joshua Chad “J.C.” Spray, Chance Spray, Weston Spray, Gracie Spray, and Audrey Spray; granddaughter, Mayleigh Rose Frazier; sister, Shannon (Ronnie) Fried; nieces, Kendall McGeorge, Hannah Fried, and Lexi Fried; the mother of his children, Jennifer Spray; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him more than words can say. Chad was preceded in death by his beloved father, Jerry Wayne Spray.
Chad’s smile, kindness, and loving spirit will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew him.
Sybile, Shannon and family- we are so sorry to hear of Chad’s passing- but are so thankful that he is well- in the presence of Christ his Savior. Please know that we are praying for you all each day- for peace, comfort and strength!
Sybil I’m sorry to hear about Chad. I can’t imagine what you’re going through! Praying for peace and comfort for you in these difficult days ahead! 🙏🙏😥😥
My heart broke when I heard the news. Smiley was my best friend in high school and even though we drifted apart as happens in life, what he meant to me never went away or diminished. In fact, it grew because I realized how much I needed his friendship and his family in my life and the impact on it. My wife and kids know Smiley, though they’ve never met him. My memories of him are etched into my heart and as vivid as if they happened yesterday. I’ll see you again my friend. Big Love.
My condolences to the family.
Shannon, my condolences to you, all the family and to Chads children. Prayers for you all!
Sybile,so sorry for Chad’s passing.I can’t even imagine to be where you are at this time. Will be praying for you.
So sorry to hear of Chad’s passing .Such a nice all around man .Loved his Family and Friends. Gracie and Family, our hearts and prayers 🙏 for you.May God wrap his arms around each of you as Heaven has gained another Angel..
Sybile, I am so sorry to hear about your son! It is hard to lose any family member but your children is especially hard I’m sure. I think of you often when I go by your house. Memories of working with you was a fun time! Prayers for you and your family.