Mr. Lonnie Ray Sallee, age 82 of Centre, passed away on September 23, 2026, at Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center in Rome, GA.
A memorial service will be held at 2 P.M. on Sunday, October 4, 2026 at the Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, with Bro. Matt West officiating. The family will be receiving friends from 1 P.M. until the hour of service at the funeral home.
He is survived by his daughters, Lisa (Peter) Soltis, Laura (Gary) Yoder, LeAnn (Rob) Stern, Amy (Chris) Corley; bonus daughters, Sherri (Kevin) Dunn and Melissa (Shayne) Garrison; brother, George Sallee; 9 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.
Lonnie was a man who brought immense joy, laughter, and an outgoing spirit to everyone he met. Known affectionately by many as “Grocery Store Dad,” Lonnie lived a life dedicated to his family, his community, and his faith. He passed away leaving behind a legacy of deep kindness, fun-loving energy, and a heart completely devoted to ministering to and helping others.
A cornerstone of the local business community, Lonnie worked for Ingles for more than 20 years and had the distinction of serving as the very first store manager for the Ingles in Centre. Through his work, he helped implement the “Tools for Schools” program, investing heavily in the future of local children. His business and community spirit also led him to help found Sherri’s Bakery, whom he has partnered with and supported many times to facilitate multiple fundraising events, including muscular dystrophy, while also being a strong supporter of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Cherokee County. Lonnie was deeply community-minded, giving his time generously as an active member of the Centre Rotary Club, the Lions Club, and the Optimist Club.
Beyond his community service, Lonnie was a man who simply could not see someone in need without stepping in to help. When devastating tornadoes swept through the area a few years ago, Lonnie quietly organized and supplied massive pallets of water to families who had lost everything. He loved to minister to people from all walks of life, offering a listening ear, a helping hand, and a warm smile to anyone going through a hard time.
When he wasn’t serving his community, Lonnie knew how to enjoy life to the fullest. He was a massive fan of football, basketball, and racing, and he could often be found lost in a good book or listening to his favorite Jimmy Buffett tunes. His adventurous spirit knew no bounds- he chased sunsets across continents and truly lived a life without borders. Above all, Lonnie loved his pets. His absolute best companion was his dog, Zeuss, whom he rescued from the pound. The bond between them was extraordinary; even in his final days, Lonnie fought hard to get better, driven by the deeply held wish to spend just a little more time by the side of his loyal dog. Lonnie’s bright energy, his unmatched generosity, and his fun-loving soul will be deeply missed by the community of Centre and everyone blessed enough to know him.
To honor his vibrant spirit and passions in life, his daughters invite those attending to join them in celebration by wearing Alabama GameDay gear, or your favorite Jimmy Buffett or Hawaiian style clothes.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Lonnie to the local Humane Society, Lion’s Club, Rotary Club, or any other local charities and organizations of your choice.
Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
