Agnes Arnell (Nell) Riley Gunter

AGNES ARNELL (NELL) RILEY GUNTER
April 23, 1922- September 29, 2020

Agnes Arnell (Nell) Riley Gunter departed this life on Tuesday, September 29, 2020, at the age of 98 years, 5 months, and 6 days. She was born in Mayfield, Kentucky on April 23, 1922, the daughter of the late Worthy Clarence and Jessie Ollis Depriest Riley. On February 21, 1942, she was united in marriage to Claude Wayne Gunter, who preceded her in death on November 4, 2004.

During her lifetime, Nell began her chosen career as a beautician working at Beverly's Beauty Shop in Memphis, Tennessee. She later purchased her own beauty shop. Nell also drove a school bus for Shelby County Schools, delivered newspapers, and assisted her husband in operating an Esso gas station.

Nell was a member of Mount Hermon Baptist Church in Savannah, Tennessee. She also had a special place in her heart for Robertson Chapel United Methodist Church of Savannah and New Home Baptist Church in Mayfield, Kentucky.

Nell Gunter was a living example of what it means to live for Christ in everyday life. She loved attending church with her friends. She was a true example of a Proverbs 31 woman. She was clothed with strength and dignity. She was hard working. She was dedicated to walking in virtue. She cared deeply for her husband and sons. She put the needs of her family and others before her own desires. She was a woman of noble character who walked by faith. Her worth to her family and community was worth far more than rubies.

Nell loved people. She always had a open-door policy at her home. Family and friends were always coming to enjoy a visit, a simple conversation, or a meal. She was blessed with the ability to make everyone feel like family. She loved cooking and canning. She was known for sharing her delicious pecan pies with others. Nell took pride in her home and worked hard to keep it spotless and organized. Family and friends enjoyed listening to her stories about the many items in her house. She loved working outside in her garden and with her flowers. Earlier in life, she enjoyed playing the piano and camping.

Nell is survived by her son, Jerry Lynn Gunter, of Savannah, Tennessee. She is also survived by her nieces, Mary Grupe, Carolyn Diamond, and Anna Weaver.

Other special friends and family members include Dee Etta Riley, Bert and Michelle Johnston, Jesse and Jacob Johnston, Michael Darling, Jimmy and Pat White, and Bob Livingston, along with many other extended family and friends.

Nell is also survived by her devoted caretakers who she loved as family: Terrie Hildebrand, Ruth Cook, and Anita Rose.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Riley Wayne Gunter, a brother, Eugene Riley and a nephew, Clarence Riley.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, 1845 Mount Herman Road, Savannah, TN 38372 or Robertson Chapel United Methodist Church, 35 Delbert Road, Savannah, TN 38372.

The family of Agnes Arnell (Nell) Riley Gunter respectfully asks for all attending the funeral services to wear a mask and observe social distancing guidelines.