James Anderson “Jim” Abel, Jr.
James Anderson “Jim” Abel, Jr., a beloved community and church leader, passed away peacefully on May 11 surrounded by his family at the age of 92.
He was born on March 9, 1931, to James and Margaret Abel, Sr. and lived in Chattanooga.
He graduated from the McCallie School class of '49 and loved sharing many cherished memories from his days there. He graduated from the University of Chattanooga where he met the love of his life, Marnie Wagner. He then joined the United States Air Force where he proudly recalled his days playing military semi-professional baseball.
He married Marnie at the UC Patten Chapel after his return to Chattanooga from the military. They moved to Signal Mountain and were members of Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church where he was an elder, teacher, and later received the honor of Elder Emeritus. Jim had a strong Christian faith and led several Sunday school classes. He especially loved working with the youth of the church and being with his bible study small group. He most loved the SMPC Family Camp where he enjoyed teaching children how to ski behind the "Abel" boat and handing out "First Time Skier" awards at dinner.
He was a very supportive father and grandfather, attending numerous family events. He was an avid fisherman and loved taking his family and friends out on the Tennessee River with him. There were many times when no fish were caught, but that wasn't important to him, he just loved conversing with family and friends on his boat in such a beautiful environment. Jim was an avid Braves fan and always handed out printed schedules to his family. He watched every game (and re-runs the next day), and regularly donned his Braves hat.
He was employed as a contract specialist at Combustion Engineering for many years where he took early retirement. He then worked at Southern Champion Tray as a safety manager prior to permanent retirement. He served on the outdoor ministries board of Camp John Knox, and was also involved with Contact Telephone Ministry and the John Calvin Ministry where he served on the board.
He is survived by his daughters, Janet Abel Pickett and Susie Abel Higgins (David); grandsons Matthew, Daniel, and Jacob Higgins, and Adam and Joshua Pickett; sister, Martha Jane Abel Payne; sister-in-law Nancy Wagner Hughes; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife of 61 years, Marilyn “Marnie” Abel.
The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 16, at Chattanooga Funeral Home – North Chapel. A burial will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 17, at Chattanooga National Cemetery with military honors performed by the U.S. Air Force. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17, at Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church, 612 James Blvd, Signal Mountain, Tn. 37377, with visitation immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to: John Knox Center, Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church or to your favorite charity.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory, and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com for the Abel family.