Royce E. Cantrell

Today we honor the life of Royce E. Cantrell—a father, grandfather, and proud veteran. Born on November 7, 1926, in Cumming, Georgia, Royce grew up during some of the hardest years our country has ever faced. When duty called, he answered, serving in the United States Navy during World War II. His service took him across the Pacific, where he stood alongside so many of his generation—ordinary men who became extraordinary through courage and sacrifice.

When he returned home, Royce carried with him the values that shaped his life: loyalty, perseverance, and love of family. But above all, what guided his steps was his love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His strength came from his faith, and his quiet example was a testimony to the hope he held in Christ.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lyndon and Mary Cantrell; his wives, Velma Cantrell, Erma Cantrell, and Katie Cantrell; his siblings, Voncille, Christine, Inez, Ellene , Guy, Bill, and Wayne Cantrell; and his son, Ronnie Cantrell.

He is survived by his children: Denise and her husband Tim Alley, Clifton and his wife Linda Halsey, Jeff and his wife Lovelle Halsey, and Angie and her husband Marty Weck. His grandchildren, Julie, Sheena, Britt, John Luke, Sierra, Savannah, Maddie Kate, Nate, Shiva, and Kameron.  Great grandchildren, Austin, Maddie, Mia, Brayden, Lillian, Emily, Ella, Indie and Priscilla; a special thank you to Marie Cantrell, sister-in-law, and his caretaker Lisa McCallister.  His love for his family will remain a lasting legacy for generations to come.

As we lay him to rest, we give thanks for his life, his service, and, most importantly, the faith that carried him through. We rejoice in the promise of eternal life and the comfort of knowing he is at peace with his Savior Jesus Christ.  

Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Little & Davenport Funeral Home with Rev. Garry English and Rev. Donnie Nix officiating. Inurnment will take place at Georgia National Cemetery at a later date. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Thursday from 1:00 p.m. until the hour of service.

Little and Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory are in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be made on the website at www.littledavenport.com