David James

David James, 75, a resident of Franklin and a long-time resident of Union City, died Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018, at Belvedere Commons in Franklin.
David James was born Oct. 10, 1942, in Hickman, Ky., to Maggie and E.W. James. David attended Fulton County High School and earned a degree in business administration from Murray State University.
He married the former Tommye Faye Kilpatrick in 1967.
Following graduation, he served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.
When David came home from the military in 1969, he joined his father and brother in the daily operations of E.W. James & Sons. In 1989, he bought the company from his brother and sister. His hard work helped grow the company to locations throughout West Tennessee.
David was a sterling example of a businessman who was committed to his employees, customers and the customers and communities his stores served.
David was a long-time member of Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church, Obion County Airport Commission, and Obion County Chamber of Commerce and was a Union City councilman. His past honors included Grocer of the Year award from the Tennessee Grocers Association and Outstanding Citizen Award from Union City Jaycees.
David enjoyed his free time spending time with family and friends, traveling, golfing, scuba diving, snow and water skiing, hiking and working out to stay in top condition.
He held a commercial, instrument and multi-engine pilot’s license. In June 2005, he reached the 19,340 floor summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak.
Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1-4 p.m. at White-Ranson Funeral home.
A memorial service will be at Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church on Monday at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church or Friends Life: Program for Adults with Special Needs at www.friendslife.org or 4414 Granny White Pike, Nashville, TN 37204.

Published 9.28.18