James R. Loftis

James R. Loftis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong woodworker, musician, and outdoorsman passed away on July 11, 2023, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center. James was born on November 12, 1942, in the Morrison’s Creek area of Jackson County. James dedicated his life to his family, church, and enjoying life playing music, woodworking, and enjoying the outdoors hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Mary Louise Loftis, whom he married June 22, 1963. James is also survived by his sons Jimmy (Debi) Loftis, Gary (Donna) Loftis, his brothers Ray, Donnie, Billy Joe and Edward Loftis and sister Barbara Loftis, brother-in-law Roger (Patsy) Whitson, grandchildren who were the highlight of his life, Chris Loftis, Peri (Jeremy) Fouss, Hanna (Joey) Cross, and Ben Loftis, and great grandchildren Rory Kate Cross and Adam Fouss. Also, by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loved ones.

James was preceded in death by his parents Oliver Cordell Loftis and Norma Masters Loftis, in-laws Coran and Avie Whitson, brothers Larry Loftis, Dawson (Wanda) Loftis, sister Minnie Loudell (James) Bumbalough, brother-in-law Billy D. Loftis, sister-in-laws Barbara Jean Loftis, Wanda Loftis, and Martha Loftis.

James graduated from Jackson County High School and worked in the furniture, upholstery, and cabinetry industry during his career. James was an avid woodworker, fisherman, and loved playing music with his brothers and other friends over the years. James was a deacon, song leader, and treasurer for Smyrna church of Christ where he was a member for over fifty years.

Personal note from the family:

The verse Ecclesiastes 9:10 states “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might” embodies James’ life. Anyone that knew him understood this. There was not a day of his life that he did not put 110% of everything he had into what he was doing. From being a husband, father, grandfather, Christian, employee, to personal projects (and there were many of them), he loved his life. He was always working around the house, in his wood shop, at the church building, or helping a friend. He enriched our lives as well as so many others. We will miss him so much, but time we shared with him will never be forgotten.

We would like to thank all the friends, family, and health care workers that help and shown their love for James, especially during the last few years of his life.

Visitation and funeral services for James will be at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home. The funeral service will be on Friday, July 14th at 3:00pm. James Rodgers, John Chowning, and Johnny Fox will officiate the service. Interment will follow at Smyrna Cemetery. His family will welcome friends Thursday (13th) from 5:00pm – 8:00pm and Friday from 12:00pm until service time.

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home will oversee the arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share your condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.