Dr. James Leonard Breyer

Dr. James Leonard Breyer, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2024, at Signature Health Care of Putnam County, TN. Born on July 27, 1936, in Granite City, Illinois, he lived a full and compassionate life, dedicated to his family, his patients, and his community.

Dr. Breyer was a pillar of strength and kindness, deeply loved by his family. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 60 years, Evelyn Brown Breyer, whom he married on August 17, 1963, in Nashville, TN. Together, they raised a family that includes their children, Todd Breyer, Lisa Breyer (Wayne Stoglin), and Greg Breyer (Lisa Stanfield). Dr. Breyer was a cherished grandfather to Brianna, Jackson, Shawn (Melissa), Hannah, and Ethan Breyer, and a doting great-grandfather to Remi, Quill, and Luna Breyer. He is also survived by his siblings, John Breyer (Pat), Michael Breyer (Sharen), and Mary Dercks (Jerry), who will hold his memory dear. Preceding him in death were his parents, John Breyer and Margaret Muick Breyer, and his brother Dennis Breyer (Linda).

Dr. Breyer was a respected pediatrician in Cookeville, TN, where he began his practice in 1969. He dedicated over three decades of his life to the well-being of children, retiring in 2001. His legacy is not only carried on through his family but also through the countless lives that he touched. His honest, sensible, and polite nature, coupled with his firm but humble approach to medicine, earned him the deep respect of his patients and colleagues alike. He was not only a healer but also a confidant and advocate for the children of the community.

Outside of his professional life, Dr. Breyer was a man of many interests. In addition to being an avid genealogical researcher, he was a hobby farmer, who found joy in the simplicity and hard work of tending to his land. His love for the outdoors was matched by his loving, kind, and gentle spirit. Those who knew him best would describe Dr. Breyer as a man who was firm in his ways yet always carried himself with a sense of humility and grace. The words that best encapsulate Dr. Breyer are loving and kind. He was a beacon of light for his family, a trusted physician in his community, and a friend to all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him and the many lives he impacted through his work and his generous spirit.

Graveside services for Dr. Breyer are being planned for a later date at Grace Chapel Cemetery in Beersheba Springs, TN. It will be a private ceremony for family, friends, and those whose lives were touched by Dr. Breyer to gather and celebrate a life well-lived, a life that exemplified love, care, and unwavering kindness.

Memorial contributions in Dr. Breyer's memory may be made to Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital online or by mail.

If you want to mail a donation, please send checks or money orders (please no cash) to:

ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105

Or online at https://www.stjude.org/donate

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.