Lonnie Lee Varnell, 75, of Cleveland, passed away on May 9, 2022. Lonnie was a football fan. He played for Bradley Central High in his younger years. He was an avid UT Vols fan until his passing. He lived an active life; a champion powerlifter, fishing, driving fast cars and spending time with grandsons. He also loved NASCAR and loved to watch Dale Earnhardt. He was also musically talented and was the drummer for his own band, The Critics. In football he also became the president of the Midget Football League and the Bradley Flag Football League.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Lovelace Varnell; his parents, JT Varnell; and his wife, Reba Varnell.
He is survived by his son, Lee Anthony Varnell; his brother, John Thomas Varnell; grandchildren, Jacob Varnell and Davis Lancaster; and great friends, Deanna Allen and Tommy Standridge. He will be missed by many that loved him and that he loved.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Leah McCammon Foundation in Memory of Lonnie Varnell, 80 Skin Alley, Norcross, Ga. 30071.
Arrangements by Companion Funeral Homes Cleveland Chapel.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 21, with Visitation from 1-3 p.m., with a service at 3 p.m. The visitation and service will be held at the 1st Lutheran Church, 195 McIntire Ave. in Cleveland.