Roy Yates Ammons of Mars Hill passed from this life August 5, 2016 at his home on Woods Ammons Road. He was the son of the late Woodson and Alma Ammons of Mars Hill. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Lawrence, and sisters Rachel Roberts and Geneva Maney.

Roy graduated from East Tennessee State University in 1957; the same year he began his education and athletic career at Hot Springs High School where he also met Betty, his wife of 57 years. Coach Ammons had an athletic career that spanned decades throughout Madison County. He led state champion teams in baseball, basketball, and football. Roy also led the first consolidated football team for the county winning more than half the games played. He has been affectionately called “the greatest coach Madison County has ever seen.”

Roy’s first love was coaching, followed by his love of farming to which he devoted himself after retirement. He became the largest tobacco producer in the County while also raising Polled Hereford cattle, receiving numerous awards and honors for his work in both.

In addition to his wife, Roy is survived by his daughter Linda (Donald Williams) who has continued his legacy as an outstanding math teacher and managing the farm. Also surviving him is a special granddaughter, Jamie (John Gosnell), brothers Woody (Joyce Ammons), Jud Ammons, many nieces and nephews, and a church family who will greatly miss him.

A memorial service honoring Roy, with visitation following, will be held on Tuesday, August 9th, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. at Vision Missionary Baptist Church located at 386 Phillips Valley Road, Mars Hill, where he was a member. The service will be led by Rev. Martin Fisher, Michael Garrison, and Rev. Steven Glover.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Hospice of Madison County, 590 Medical Park Drive, Marshall, NC 28753, or The American Cancer Society,100 Athletic St, Mars Hill, NC 28754-9134 or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences can be sent to: www.blueridgefuneralservice.org