Dewey Boyd

Dewey Boyd, 82, passed away surrounded by loved ones who cherished his strength, wit, and unwavering spirit on Thursday, July 3, 2025. Dewey was originally from Banner, KY but lived in Chattanooga for 59 years. He graduated from Betsy Layne High School and was retired from Alstom (previously Combustion Engineering).
A man forged by hardship and defined by perseverance, he overcame childhood poverty and a battle with leukemia-emerging not just a survivor, but a relentless giver.
From a young age, Dewey learned the value of grit and grace. Those lessons shaped a man who never met a stranger, always had an old saying on hand, and rarely passed up the chance to give some unsolicited-but usually spot-on-advice. He believed in working hard, saving wisely, being honest, and giving 100% in everything he did.
Whether it was lending a hand to a neighbor, mentoring the next generation, or simply being present for those he loved, Dewey lived to serve others. He was strong-not just physically, but in character. He spoke his mind with the kind of clarity and candor that made you laugh, think, and often both at once.
Family was the heartbeat of his life. He found joy in taking his loved ones camping, hiking through the crisp air of Thanksgiving mornings, and capturing nature's beauty through the lens of his camera. His photographs of wildlife and landscapes remain as vivid and vibrant as the memories he created.
A passionate grandfather and fierce competitor, Dewey played to win-whether it was a friendly game of basketball, a round of cards, or simply a spirited debate. His love for electronics, bluegrass festivals, and all things mechanical kept his hands busy and his mind sharp. There was little he couldn't fix, and even less he wouldn't try.
He spoke his mind-often unfiltered and not always appropriate-but always honest. Whether he made you laugh, blush, or shake your head, you knew exactly where he stood. His sharp wit, colorful phrases, and knack for telling it like it is were all part of what made him unforgettable.
An excellent athlete in his younger years, Dewey never lost his love for movement, challenge, and triumph. But perhaps his greatest victories were in the hearts of those he touched-with wisdom, humor, loyalty, and a stubborn refusal to quit.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Cora Boyd, and brothers, Jay R. Boyd, Ray Boyd and Kermit Boyd.
Dewey is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dana Boyd; son, David Boyd (Katinka); daughter, Emily Drake; brothers, Curt Boyd (Kathy) and Roy Boyd of Allen, KY; sisters, Bonnie Boyd and Evelyn McNeeley (Kevin) of Lorain, OH; grandchildren, Taylor Cora Boyd (Dylan), Hannah Renee Drake and Benjamin Lee Drake; special friends, Jim Hillian (Julia), EJ Dishroon (Anna), Jeff Lewis (Billie), and Gary Akers of Burlington, KY, as well as and a legacy of resilience, laughter, and love. He leaves behind countless stories, well-worn tools, treasured photographs, and a family that will forever be stronger because of him.
He taught his family to work hard, speak truth, laugh often, and to always finish what they start.
And as he might've said himself-"Don't just sit there like a bump on a log-go live a good life."
The family would also like to especially thank doctors and caregivers, Dr. Bertrand Anz, April Gatlin MSN, NP-C, CHI Memorial, 4 East and CCU Staff, Dr. Jason Kennedy and Dr. Chad Paxson.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 12, 2025 from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. at Turner Funeral Home.
Please share your memories and express condolences to the family on their guestbook.
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