Ronnie Dewey Cantrell, age 81, of Alto, Georgia, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 25, 2025, following an extended illness.
Born on October 24, 1944, in Alto, Georgia, Ronnie was the son of the late J.C. Cantrell and Georgia Lou Stephens Cantrell. A lifelong resident of the community he loved, Ronnie was well known as the owner and operator of Ronnie’s Shell Station, a business he faithfully ran beginning in 1972. For decades, his station was more than a place to buy gas—it was a gathering spot where friendships were formed and stories were shared.
Ronnie enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. In his spare time, he loved hunting and fishing, and he was a devoted fan of the Georgia Bulldogs and the Atlanta Falcons. Above all, Ronnie cherished his family and his faith, which guided him throughout his life.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Sue Westbrooks.
Survivors include his loving wife of 60 years, Bea Cook Cantrell; sons and daughters-in-law, Chip and Leyta Cantrell and Chuck and Diana Cantrell; grandchildren, Cassie Cantrell, Savannah Cantrell, Dennis Garcia, and Luis Garcia; brother and sister-in-law, Randy and Susie Cantrell; along with nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends who will forever treasure his memory.
Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Monday, December 29, 2025, from the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home, with Rev. Tim Beasley officiating. Interment will follow in the Alto Congregational Holiness Church Cemetery, with Rev. Robbie Campbell officiating at the graveside.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 28, 2025, and again on Monday from 12:00 noon until the service hour.
An online guest registry is available for the Cantrell family here.
McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.
