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James Davis Wilson, better known as “Jim” by those who loved him, passed away at Sycamore Shoals Hospital at the age of 88 on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. He was born on March 21, 1935 in Bluefield, W.Va., to Dewey Stowers Wilson and Hattie Davis Wilson. Jim was known for his jovial nature, his easy-going demeanor, his love of helping others, and his singing. Besides hearing his voice in the church choir, he could often be heard belting out a tune at any given moment. Above all, it is clear that Jim never met a stranger – human or animal.
Upon moving to Bristol, Va., in 1950, Jim graduated from Virginia High School’s Class of 1954. Jim worked many different jobs after graduating high school, and with much drive and determination, he graduated from East Tennessee State University in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. While at ETSU, Jim was a member of the ROTC Unit. Upon graduation, he joined the United States Army. After leaving the Army in 1961, Jim found employment with Foremost Dairies in Bristol, Va., and eventually earned a position with the Internal Revenue Services in 1966. This remained his career until he retired in 1995. If ever there was a good guy to be audited by, it was Jim. If you were unfortunate enough to be audited by the IRS, at least Jim would give you a warm smile and apology prior to giving you a bill to pay.
Jim loved contributing to his community in a variety of ways. His contributions included serving as treasurer for years while on the Board of ARM (Assistance and Resource Ministries), Treasurer of the Kiwanis Club, being an active member at First Presbyterian Church, and participating in numerous outings with retired IRS agents.
He was an active father with his two children, Sherie and Diane. Jim could be found in the background actively helping in any way that he could.
When his girls were grown and had their own lives, Jim met and married Helen Kane. Their lives together were full of dancing, traveling, and community service. Jim and Helen shared a beautiful life together and created an immeasurable amount of memories.
His second love was Smokey – his beloved beagle. Jim loved walking Smokey and could often be seen around town with him. When other dogs and their owners were encountered, Jim would reach into his pants pockets for his endless supply of doggie treats.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Dewey Stowers Wilson Jr.
Those left to cherish Jim’s memory include his wife, Helen Wilson of Elizabethton, Tenn.; his two daughters, Sherie Wilson and wife Lorrie Wilson of Hendersonville, N.C., and Diane Puckett of Stockbridge, Ga.; one granddaughter, Jessica Puckett of Seattle, Wash.; Helen’s four children, Sharon Stafford and husband Bill, Cindy Stafford, Scott Stafford and wife Amy, and Amy Pinkerman; and Helen’s grandchildren, Molly Cockett, Philip Miller, Megan Reese, Ryan Pinkerman, and Taylor Stafford. Jim also leaves behind three nephews, Michael, Brad, and Randy Wilson.
In lieu of flowers, the family lovingly request that donations be made to ARM-Assistance and Resource Ministries (armfoodpantry@armfoodpantry.com), The Shepherd’s Inn-Safe House/Emergency Shelter in Elizabethton, Tenn., First Presbyterian Church of Elizabethton, Tenn. (fpcelizabethton.org), and the Elizabethton/Carter County Animal Shelter.
Services will be held on Saturday, November 4, at First Presbyterian Church located at 119 W. F Street, Elizabethton, Tennessee 37643. Receiving of friends will be from 10 a.m. until noon, with a Celebration of Life occurring immediately thereafter. Words of comfort may be shared with the family by visiting our website, www.tetrickfuneralhome.com.
Tetrick Funeral Home-Riverside Chapel, 211 North Riverside, Elizabethton, TN 37643 (423) 542-2232, is honored to serve the family of Mr. James “Jim” Davis Wilson.