James McDuffie
James Chalmers McDuffie, 98, died peacefully of natural causes September 29, 2020.
Jim was born in Cincinnati, Ohio to the Rev. A. L. and Dorothy McDuffie. He spent much of his childhood in Candor, NC. A member of the Greatest Generation, he served in Navy during WWII and he remained a patriot for the rest of his life. After graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in business administration, he met and married his wife of 64 years, Rae Morris McDuffie. He worked as an industrial engineer in Gainesville and Marietta, Ga., and in Chattanooga.
Jim was a devoted husband and father. He enjoyed many hobbies, from sailing to book binding, and he spent his life reading and learning new things. The son of a Presbyterian minister, he never faltered in his faith. He was a member of Rivermont Presbyterian Church in Chattanooga and a founding member of John Knox Presbyterian Church in Marietta.
Jim was preceded in death by his wife Rae, and he is survived by three daughters: Dorothy (“Del”) McDuffie of Chattanooga, Kit McDuffie of Chattanooga, and Julia McDuffie Watson (Eric) of St. George, SC. Three grandchildren also survive him: Sarah Monroe (Kurt Grever-Hoover), Ethan Shulman, and Julianne Watson (Mike Haupt). The family thanks the staff and volunteers at Morning Pointe Assisted Living in Hixson and at Kindred Hospice for their love and support.
To honor Jim’s love of reading and his support of public libraries, we ask that you donate in his memory to your local public library.
Family will hold a private service in Chattanooga with the Reverend Dr. Clay Thomas officiating and a graveside service for Rae and Jim at Bensalem Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Eagle Springs, NC.
Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, 423 531-3975.