Anthony Ray "Tony" Harley

Anthony "Tony" Ray Harley

Nashville, TN

Age 66, passed away at his home on November 21, 2014.

Tony was born and raised in Cookeville, TN. He served in the U.S. Army as an x-ray specialist at 130th General Hospital Medical Company, Nuremberg, Germany from 1969 to 1971. After his completion of service, Tony attended Tennessee Tech University, where he earned a B.S. Degree in Accounting in 1974.

In 1987, Tony met songwriters Danny Morrison and Johnny Slate and soon after launched Affiliated Publishers, Inc. and Image Management, where Tony was a Principal and CFO and a publicist to country artists Joe Diffie, Tim McGraw, Ty Herndon and various other artists. In 1992, Tony and country artist, Tim McGraw, started a new management company, TMR2, focusing on Tim's career. In 1999, Tony was instrumental in forming Tanasi Music Group and became CEO, working along side Mr. Ed Arnold and country music artist Chalee Tennison. Since 2003, Tony provided independent business consulting services, most recently working with his dear friend and business associate, Kevin Bishop on various business projects.

Tony's entrepreneurial spirit spanned twenty years in the country music industry where many in the entertainment business across the country and abroad counted Tony as a friend and valued his business expertise. Tony was always willing to give a young artist or songwriter advice and guidance and did so with a humble heart. He gave to those in need and never expected anything in return. No matter where life took Tony, his most cherished memories were the Harley roots in the Liberty community of Jackson County, TN.

He is survived by his son, Anthony Sean Harley and wife Stephanie, and daughter, DeCher Harley of Cookeville; sisters, Dolores Wyatt and Martha Powers, and brother Mike Harley, Sherry Cunningham; the mother of his children and his dearest friend and second wife, Jayna Harley.

Tony was a beloved grandfather to Austin, Jacob, and Annagayle Harley, and a favorite uncle to all his nephews and nieces. Tony would always light up a room with his humor, antics and lively conversations. Just the mention of his name brought a smile to the faces of those who loved him. No gathering or celebration with family and friends was complete until his arrival. He will be deeply missed.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin Manuel and Eva Harris Harley, and brothers, Danny and David.

A Celebration of Life Memorial is planned at a later date.

Nashville Funeral and Cremation, 615-256-1605.