James Wesley Cantrell

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Wesley Cantrell, age 51, of Nashville, TN, on March 9th. Wesley was born on January 3rd, 1974, in Nashville, to Cinda Smith, and James C. Cantrell. He was a cherished son, devoted big brother, and a loving partner.

Wesley grew up in West Nashville and Bellevue. He developed a close relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, while attending middle school at St. Ann’s. His faith is something he held close throughout his life. During his time at Hillwood High School, he discovered he was musically gifted. He found his place, and extended family, as part of the marching band. He loved playing his saxophone, and he was extremely talented at it. So much so, that he earned his place as drum major his senior year, an accomplishment he was very proud of. Wesley dreamt of continuing his education to become a music teacher himself. However, he sacrificed his opportunity to go to college in order to raise his little sister instead. If you were lucky enough to call Wesley a friend, then you know what a blessing he was to have in your life. He was truly an amazing example of what it means to be a good person.

Wesley is preceded in death by his grandmother Johnny Curtis Smith, grandfather James Haskell Smith, grandmother Marie Brown Loya, grandfather Clarence Cantrell Jr., Step-grandmother Opal Cantrell, father James C. Cantrell, and brother-in-law Scott Kolemba. He is survived by his mother Cinda Smith, sister Cinda Kay Kolemba, and life partner Steve Lapiska.

Visitation will be held at Harpeth Hills on Hwy 100 Saturday, March 15th at 9:30am. Service to follow at 1:30. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The National MS Society.