Jerry James

Jerry Wallace James, age 82, of Hillsboro, Tennessee, passed peacefully from this life on Thursday, October 16, 2025, in Tullahoma, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in LaFollette, Tennessee, Jerry was the cherished son of the late Curtis Wallace James and Ruby Lee Pennington James. He graduated from Tennessee Tech University in June of 1968 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, where he also met the love of his life, Mary Louise Hill. The two were married on June 3, 1967, and shared 58 beautiful years together filled with faith, laughter, and deep devotion.

Throughout his professional life, Jerry was known for his exceptional work ethic and dedication. He held numerous respected positions, ranging from Safety Engineer to Plant Engineer, earning countless awards for his impeccable work and commitment to excellence. He approached each day with purpose, believing that anything worth doing was worth doing well.

A true jack of all trades, Jerry could fix just about anything. He loved working in and around his home, always repairing, improving, or building something. He found great joy in spending time outdoors, tending to his yard, and keeping everything running smoothly.

Jerry also had a strong sense of community. He served proudly as a Hillsboro Volunteer Firefighter, was President of the Lion’s Club International, and volunteered with Good Samaritan. He believed in giving back and was known throughout Hillsboro for his kindness, honesty, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

In his free time, Jerry enjoyed fishing and cheering on the University of Tennessee Volunteers, past-times

that brought him relaxation and joy throughout the years.

He and Louise were devoted members of First Baptist Church of Manchester for more than 40 years, where their Sunday School class became an extended family—friends who have shared life’s joys and challenges while faithfully serving their community together.

Jerry also loved traveling with Louise and his brothers and sisters-in-law, exploring new places and creating countless treasured memories along the way.

Above all, Jerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and family man. He cherished time spent with his children, grandchildren, and extended family, whether during holidays, camping trips, or simple family gatherings. Family was truly the center of his world.

His four granddaughters, Abbey Harper, Sydney Harper, Ryleigh James, and Ella James, affectionately called him “Poppie.” They were the light of his life and his greatest joy.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Mary Louise Hill James; his children, Keith James (Marie) and Jennifer Harper (TJ); his adored granddaughters; and many family members whom he loved dearly. His legacy of faith, kindness, and hard work will continue to live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., with funeral services to follow at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Central Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Hillsboro Methodist Cemetery in Hillsboro, Tennessee.

Central Funeral Home is honored to serve the James family, 931-723-7774 | centralfuneralhome.com