Rayma Denise (Dunning) Peery

Rayma Denise Peery, a cornerstone of the Gleason community and a devoted educator, saw her faith become sight on April 23, 2026, at the age of 70. Born in McKenzie, Tennessee, on February 1, 1956, Rayma’s life was defined by her unwavering faith, her passion for teaching, and her deep-seated love for her family and her hometown.

Rayma was preceded in death by her parents, Rayma Nelcene Johnson Dunning and Little Jack Dunning of Gleason, TN; and her sister, Rachel Jenkins of Gleason.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Timothy Ray Peery; her son, Timothy Clinton Peery and wife, Mollie; and her two cherished grandchildren, Jonathan Ray Peery and Brooklyn Marie Peery. She also leaves behind her brother Ricky Dunning and wife, Darlene; and brother-in-law, Mark Jenkins. To the world she was a teacher, but to her family, she was the world.

Rayma dedicated 42 years of her life to the students of Gleason School, where she served as a Special Education teacher. Her patience, advocacy, and belief in every child’s potential left an indelible mark on generations of students and colleagues alike.

Beyond the classroom, Rayma’s spirit resonated through the piano at First Baptist Gleason and at home. For many years, her music provided the heartbeat for Sunday services, a testament to her lifelong devotion to her faith and her church family.

Rayma shared a beautiful and enduring marriage of 46 years with her husband, Timothy Ray Peery. Together, they found joy in the simple, quiet moments of life—lately by their daily excursions through the Gleason countryside, where they shared the near daily tradition of counting deer and spotting red birds.

Known affectionately as Nana, Rayma’s greatest joy in her later years was her grandchildren. She took great pride in spoiling and encouraging them, creating a legacy of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.

Rayma’s life was a masterclass in kindness and consistency. Whether through a song at the piano, a lesson in the classroom, or a quiet drive at dusk, she made her corner of Tennessee a brighter, more compassionate place. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held Monday evening from 4-7p.m. at First Baptist Gleason. It will resume Tuesday at First Baptist Gleason at 11a.m. and go until time of her funeral service at 1p.m. Burial will follow in Hopewell Cemetery.