TONY “FAT RAT” CUPPLES

Henderson, TN: Tony “Fat Rat” Cupples, age 73, passed away at his home in Henderson on August 8, 2026.

He was born in Henderson, TN on August 9, 1952, son of the late R.E. and Eva Charline Booth Cupples. He attended Chester County High School.

He married Shirley Dodd on December 19, 1970, and they made their home in Chester County for their 55 years of marriage.

Tony worked in Auto Body Repair for most of his adult life working for Floyd Shelby, Don Neeley and Bill Mitchell. He also worked for Florida Steel returning to Auto Body Work and owned Shade Tree Body Work.

He was a member of Faith Fellowship Church, serving as a deacon.

Fat rat was a well-known guy, special in his own way and never met a stranger. He always had a joke or story to tell.

He was a devoted husband and father. He always spent time with his kids and attended anything they participated in.

Tony especially enjoyed his grandchildren, who affectionately referred to him at Paw Paw.

He was also a pet lover, especially enjoyed his two pugs, Sugar and Tinker.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Cupples; son, Ben Cupples (Jenna); daughter, Liberty Defillippo (Dan); brother, Ricky Cupples (Cheryl); sister, Susan Martin-Parrish all of Henderson; four grandchildren, Kase and Cheston Cupples and Olivia Defillippo and Anna Lyce.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Thursday August 13, 2026, at Shackelford Funeral Directors – Crook Avenue Chapel with Ken Frye and Olivia Defillippo officiating. Burial will follow at Old Friendship Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at Crook Avenue on Wednesday from 5 :00 PM until 8:00 PM.