James (Jim) Clifford Wales
James (Jim) Clifford Wales, 83, passed away on Friday, February 10, 2023, at home, surrounded by his family.
He was born in Cleveland on Oct. 28, 1939, to the late James William Wales and Roberta Lee Wales. He served his country in the Army’s 101st Airborne Division and the Military Police. Upon discharge, he joined the Tennessee National Guard and was a marksman on its High-Powered Rifle Team. Later, he was a Lieutenant in the Civil Defense Rescue Squad. He also served as a Reserve Deputy with the Tenth Judicial Drug Task Force for many years. Jim felt it was his mission in this position to fight the devastating effects caused by drugs.
Jim was an outdoorsman who passed his love of fishing, hunting, and camping to his children. He enjoyed long hikes, picnics, and drives in the mountains with his family, especially in Reliance, Tn. His passion was his family. He enjoyed spending time with his best friend, Jimmy Smith. He appreciated maintaining his special friendship since childhood, Bobby Tatum. Jim attended South Cleveland Church of God with his family.
The family suggests memorials be made to the South Cleveland Church of God, 1846 Volunteer Drive, Cleveland, TN 37311, to be used to fund the 180 Center, its ministry to men seeking recovery from addiction.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Gary Wales; his sister, Barbara Madden and her husband, Elmer; and his niece, Deborah Madden.
Jim is survived by his wife of 60 years, Regeania (Geana) Kimsey Wales; his daughters, Keri Wales Evanyk (Dewayne); Amy Wales (Evan Crews); bonus daughter, Crystal Money (Robert); and one very special grandson, Ryne Williams; chosen granddaughters, LeAnn Davis (his best buddy), and Emilee Davis; a loving nephew, Brian Madden (Sebrina) and their children, Cara and Jacob, of South Carolina; step-grandsons, Derrik and Kyle Evanyk; great-granddaughter, Ezrah Evanyk, as well as many cousins, extended family members, and friends.
A celebration of life service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 14, in the chapel of Ralph Buckner Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Fort Hill Cemetery with military honors, playing of bagpipes, and a white dove release ceremony.
His family will receive friends Tuesday, Feb. 14, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.