Jackie Wayne Massey

Jackie Wayne “JW” Massey, age 75, of New Market, Tennessee, passed away on September 20, 2025, after a courageous battle with leukemia. He spent his final months surrounded by love and care, with his family by his side. Born on May 25, 1950—though he would always say he was hatched, not born—JW lived his life in New Market, where he was known for his strength, kindness, and humor. JW proudly served his country as a member of the 3rd Marine Division, enlisting as a Marine and serving twice in Vietnam. He later joined the Army and was stationed in Germany and France, demonstrating courage and dedication throughout his military career. During his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon. He was known for his warm smile and quick wit. One of his favorite jokes was when he would spell his name and then laugh, saying, “Line those letters up with the alphabet and it spells ‘gorgeous.’” He would even answer the phone by saying, “Gorgeous, here,” a playful quirk that brought smiles to everyone who knew him. JW worked as a brakeman and later as a conductor on the Rock Island Railroad, dedicating many years to his career and earning the respect of his colleagues. He also owned and operated Done Right Plumbing in California for 30 years, building a reputation for quality work and reliability in the community. He was a devoted deacon at Calvary Chapel of Oceanside, California, demonstrating his faith and commitment to his church community throughout his life. JW enjoyed fishing, spending time outdoors, and creating joyful moments with family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Leroy Massey and Jimmie Ferban, his sister Helda Manly, and his brothers Jerry Massey, Bobby Massey, and his twin brother Jonnie Massey. He is survived by his daughters Valerie Hartless and Renee Pike, his son Joshua Massey, his grandchildren Jacob Massey, Matthew Baudendistel Jr., and Michelle Hines, his two great-granddaughters, his sisters Nancy Zirkle, Donna Massey, Sheril Lawrence, Linda Strawn, and Loretta Fluitt, his extended family including Rodger Hensley, James (It) Hensley, Johnathan Hensley, Ashley Woods, his cousin Kathy Montfort, his nephew Bill Massey, and close family friends David and Vern Kline, MaryJo Witt, Gloria Franklin (whose late husband Carl Franklin was also a dear family friend), and Paul Fornier of California. JW always wanted to see smiles on everyone’s face and took care of everyone around him, leaving a legacy of love, laughter, and generosity that will be remembered by all who knew him. A service to celebrate JW’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery with full military honors by East Tennessee Veterans Honor Guard. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the legacy he leaves behind. JW will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, devoted deacon, dedicated railroad conductor, successful business owner, and a man whose humor, heart, and spirit touched everyone who knew him. Fielden Funeral Home is honored to serve the Massey family.

Jackie Wayne Massey

May 25, 1950 - September 20, 2025