Okey Lee Nida, 89, of Sissonville, passed away on October 8, 2026, at CAMC Memorial Hospital.

Born on May 17, 1937, to the late Okey W. and Wavie (Godby) Nida, Okey spent his early childhood in Roane County before moving with his family to the Sissonville area. He attended Sissonville High School, where he played quarterback for the undefeated 1953 football team and excelled as the baseball team’s MVP.

Following high school, Okey served four years in the United States Air Force as a military policeman, spending two years in Okinawa, Japan, and two years in Battle Creek, Michigan. He achieved the rank of Buck Sergeant (E-4) before receiving an honorable discharge in 1958.

Upon returning to civilian life, Okey worked as a milkman for Bonham’s and Valley Bell Dairy for nearly 20 years. He later became a successful entrepreneur as the owner of Okey’s Markets and Valley Fence Company. Outside of work, Okey was an avid hunter, fisherman, coin collector, and bowler, and he continued his love for sports by playing on a local adult league baseball team.

Okey was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Beverly (Thaxton) Nida; his sons, Robert Joseph Nida and Mark David Nida; his sister, Barbara Phillips; and his grandsons; Michael Lee Nida II and Brandon Nida.

He is survived by his two children, son Michael Lee and daughter Angela (Scott) Griffith; seven grandchildren: Ashley, Nicholas (Summer), Jesse (Kiara), Matthew, Anthony (Olivia), Arianna, and Travis; nine great-grandchildren: Alexis, Samantha, Sierra, Xavier, Marlee, Aria, Samson, Archer, and Leonard; and his great-great-grandchild, Teagan.

In keeping with Okey's wishes, he will be cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date.