James Wiley Diamond Sr., 82 of Lakesite, Tennessee, died on Saturday, May 5, 2012.
“Big Jim” was a loving husband, great father and grandfather. He never met a stranger and was the friendliest most positive person one would ever meet.
He was born in Jay, Fla., and was a longtime resident of Chattanooga. He served in the U.S. Army for four years stationed in Alaska where he played basketball. Coach Joel Eves from Auburn saw him play in the army and told Jim to come see him in Auburn. Jim did and played basketball at Auburn where he was Captain. He graduated from Auburn and then coached at Elba, AL. He met Gwyn Dismukes in Elba and they were married a year later.
Jim is survived by his wife of 54 years, Gwyn D. Diamond, sons, Jim Jr. Diamond, Louis “Chip” (Melissa) Diamond and granddaughter, Hannah; many friends ( Donna Heath) and relatives.
Jim loved to fish, golf, sit and talk with friends. He was famous for his fish fries. What a time they have had!
The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, May 7 at the North Chapel.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 8, at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home with Pastor Ray Williams\Pastor Rise’ Singer officiating.
Special thanks to Life Care of Red Bank and Hospice of Chattanooga.
Arrangements are by Chattanooga Funeral Home Crematory and Florist, North Chapel, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn., 37343.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.