Donnie Ray "Smiley" Nelson

Donnie Ray “Smiley” Nelson age 51, of Powell, TN passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Donnie Ray was known for his infectious laughter and a smile that could brighten any room. Despite living with physical challenges, Donnie Ray taught everyone around him the true meaning of resilience, joy and unconditional love.

Donnie Ray loved listening to music (especially Morgan Wallen), going on long car rides with his mom and visiting family (especially his Mamaw).

Donnie Ray was preceded in death by his grandparents, Earl and Euwanna Clevenger and Ernest and Geneva Nelson; aunt, Teresa and uncle, Jim Haines. He is survived by his parents, Kay Weaver and Donnie Nelson; uncle, David (Calvert) Clevenger; cousins, Callie, Lee, Dax, Dr. Erika (Aaron) Bales, Billy (Rachel) Brown, Mason, Maddie, Kevin (Amanda) Brown, Alex, Connor and Tyler Haines. The family would like to send a heartfelt thank you to Donnie Ray’s beloved caregiver, Chandie Sledge.

Family and friends will meet at 12:00 PM Monday, May 11, 2026, at Mynatt Funeral Home, Powell Chapel (2000 Powell Drive Powell, TN 37849) and travel in procession to Greenwood Cemetery for a 1:00 PM Entombment Service in the Mausoleum.

An online obituary may be viewed, and condolences made at www.mynattfh.com.

Mynatt Funeral Home, Powell Chaple is honored to be serving the family of Donnie Ray "Smiley" Nelson.

Mynatt Funeral Home Powell Chapel * 2000 Powell Drive * Powell, TN 37849 * (865) 362-5382 * www.mynattfh.com