Opal Idabell Dennis

Opal Idabell Dennis, age 88, passed away on November 3, 2025. She was with us on this earth for 88 wonderful years.

Born in Decatur, Tennessee, Opal was a longtime resident of Cleveland, Tennessee. She was of the Baptist faith and a proud graduate of Meigs County High School, Class of 1956. Opal was known for her kind heart and her love for everyone she met.

In her younger years, she was the pitcher for the Meigs County softball team-until her mother discovered it and made her quit because she wasn't allowed to wear pants. She later joined a bowling league with Dr. Chalmer Chastain, where she excelled and enjoyed many fun years.

Opal worked at Hardwick Clothes for over 40 years, where her dedication earned her numerous plaques and trophies. In her free time, she loved cooking delicious homecooked meals for her family and friends, going to yard sales, traveling, and following her favorite Southern gospel group, The McKameys.

She was preceded in death by her parents, David Buster and Eva Trusley; two husbands, Jim Hicks and John Dennis; three children, Jimmy, Sharon, and David Hicks; and grandchildren, Carl Eugene, Lori, and Heath Kelso.

She is survived by her daughters, Sondra (Lewis) Best and Karen (Thomas) Key; grandchildren, Shaun Free, David Ray, Christy, Trudy, Chris, Ross, Shelly, Josh, Keisha, Little David, and Dylan; great-grandchildren, Colby, Daphine, Trey, Dylan, Gracie, Zoey, Alex, Milika, Brooke, Katilyn, Taylor, Hailey, Leah, Ireland, Abby, Kara, Cannon, Freya, and Skyla; and great-great-grandchildren, Bryson, Whyatt, Korban, Asher, Truitt, Tinsley, Parker, Malcom, and baby-to-be Tristyn. She also leaves behind her special friend and cousin, Lola Shipley, and best friend, Brenda Robinson.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation in Opal's memory.

The family will hold a memorial service at a later date.