Ronnie Coleman Speeks

Ronald Coleman Speeks, age 80, passed away peacefully in his Knoxville home on Friday evening. Ronnie was a proud 1957 graduate of Rule High School where he excelled in track and chorus. He was a lifetime entertainer all over the United States. His career began with "Ronnie Speeks and his Elrods" and later known for his "Tribute to Elvis Shows" backed by a 16-piece orchestra. He was a member of Fairview Free Will Baptist Church in Heiskell, TN. Preceded in death by his parents Jesse Mack and Ella Mae (Wolfenbarger) Speaks and all of his siblings: Clyde, Marie Brock, Delmer, Lester, Christine Hansard, Verlin "Red" & Patty Speaks. Survived by his wife, Linda (Deal) Speeks; Daughters: Chris (Lester) Fritts, Suzie Monroe, & Sandra (Dave) McDonald; Granddaughters: Jessica Bear, Justine Fritts, Rachel Monroe & Megan McDonald; Great-Grandchildren: Elijah and Ashlyn Bear; Sister-in-laws: Geneva Speaks and Katheryn Speeks; Brother-in-laws: Dave (Linda), Larry (Darlene), and Tim Deal; and many special nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Ronnie personally wanted to thank all of his family, friends, fellow musicians and fans for their life-long support; he said you were the biggest blessings in his life. The family would like to say a special "thank you" to Amedisys Hospice staff for their support. The family will receive friends Tuesday, May 8, 2018, from 6 - 8 pm at Mynatt Funeral Home Halls Chapel. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 9, 2018, at 1 pm at Mynatt Funeral Home Halls Chapel with Rev. Ivan Kennedy officiating. Following the service, family and friends will proceed to Greenwood Cemetery for a 2:30 pm graveside service. Nephews and friends are honored to serve as pallbearers. If you wish to make a donation in his honor, the family requests they be made to the American Heart Association, or American Cancer Society.