Jodie Ray French, Jr.

Jodie Ray French, Jr., born on September 1, 1958, in Dyersburg, Tennessee, left this world unexpectedly on October 27, 2025, in Jackson, Tennessee. He was a cherished soul known for his immense love for his family, his unwavering dedication to his career, and his remarkable impact on those around him.

Jodie enjoyed a fulfilling career as an environmental, health, and safety specialist with Bayer, where he dedicated 17 years of his life. His expertise and leadership shone brightly in his role as a Tap Root cause analysis leader and trainer, earning him the prestigious Monsanto manufacturing award in 2011. His commitment to safety and professionalism did not go unnoticed as he was honored with the ASSP Safety Professional of the Year award by the Golden Circle Chapter, where he also held several leadership positions.

Education was important to Jodie, and he proudly attended Dyersburg High School. His journey of learning continued at Jackson State before he transferred to Union University, where he achieved his bachelor's degree. These milestones laid a firm foundation for the values he instilled in his children and grandchildren.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jodie's heart was deeply intertwined with his faith and community. He actively participated in Christmas programs and judgment houses at First Baptist Church of Selmer, TN, nurturing the spirit of joy and giving in those around him. Later, he became a treasured member of Englewood Baptist Church, where his engaging personality and commitment to service touched many lives. He also served as Chaplin of Faith Riders.

A devoted supporter of his children and grandchildren, Jodie never missed an opportunity to cheer them on, attending all their sporting events—from baseball and football to cheerleading and beauty pageants. His presence was a reassuring constant, illustrating his selflessness as he traveled all the way to California to witness a child's performance, embodying the true spirit of dedication and love.

Jodie had a zest for life that included various hobbies and interests. An adventurer at heart, he found joy in activities such as snow skiing, hiking, camping, riding segways, and running in 5Ks. His playful side came alive in bowling and zip-lining, and he had an undeniable passion for motorcycles, Corvettes, and Jeeps. A fan of fun and games, he passionately enjoyed The Price is Right, even experiencing the thrill of attending the show in person.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 24 years, Melissa French; children, Christie Lynn Davison (Kirk), Melissa Claire Ridgeway (John Penn), and Erin Ashlie Jones (Ty), Jacob Ryan Ford (Laura), Sarah Leigh Ann Ford Rowland (Mason); grandchildren, Walker Ridgeway, Jackson Ridgeway, Barrett Jones, Colin Davison, Clair Davison, Luke Ford, and Owen Ford; and sisters, Mary Ann DeSplinter (Dick) and Donna Louise Lynn (Bubba). He was preceded in death by his parents, Jodie Ray French and Helen Louise French.

A service to celebrate Jodie's life will be held 1:00 p.m. Sunday, November 2, 2025, in the chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors. The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. The burial will follow at Highland Memorial Gardens. In. lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org/donate.

Pallbearers to serve: Colin Davison, Bill French, Alex Melton, Mark Moody, Tyler Stanley, and Larry Tyler.

Jodie Ray French, Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, and warmth that will not be forgotten. His kind spirit, infectious energy, and unwavering support for his loved ones will resonate in the hearts of all who knew him. The world is a little less bright without him, but his memory will live on through the stories shared and the lives he touched.

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