James Roger Spivey

James Roger Spivey of Nashville, Tennessee, passed on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at the age of 76, but his larger-than-life persona and trademark stubbornness will not be forgotten.

Roger was born on August 3, 1948, in Louisville, Kentucky, and shortly thereafter was adopted by his mother, Gladyce Spivey of Madison, TN. Roger graduated from Madison High School in 1966 and after a brief but spirited stint at Middle Tennessee State University he enlisted in the United States Army in February 1967. He served for four years, including one year of active service in the Vietnam Conflict. He was honorably discharged in January 1971 and continued his service in the National Guard. 

Shortly after returning to Nashville he met his wife, Judy Ann Dunn, and they married in September 1972. Roger’s mom said this marriage would never last. They were married for 52 years at the time of his death. After working in a variety of different vocations, Roger found his calling in the hospitality industry, which he remained in until his retirement.

Roger is survived by his loving wife Judy; his son Robert Spivey (Misty McCoy) of Nashville, TN; his daughter Catherine Rogers and son-in-law, Matt Rogers of Nashville, TN; his sweet granddaughter Elizabeth known to everyone as Lizzy; and his trusty sidekick and loyal service dog, Charlie. He was preceded in death by his mother Gladyce Spivey. 

Roger will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by many friends, former colleagues, and extended family.

A tremendous heartfelt thanks goes to the truly compassionate and exceptional hospice nurses at Alive Hospice in Nashville, who provided much more than just comfort during his transition from this life to the next.

Services are scheduled for Friday, Feb. 14, at West Harpeth Funeral Home (6962 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209). Visitation will be from 10am until time of service at 1pm. Following the memorial service, interment with full military honors will be held at Middle Tennessee State Veterans’ Cemetery (7931 McCrory Lane, Nashville, TN 37221) beginning at 2pm. 

In lieu of flowers the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to TADSAW(Train A Dog Save A Warrior) or Alive Hospice.