Smedley, James Melton “Jim”

Vietnam Navy Veteran Worked 30 Years At The Times Free Press

  • Saturday, June 15, 2024
James Melton “Jim” Smedley
James Melton “Jim” Smedley

James Melton “Jim” Smedley, 76, of Chattanooga, TN, passed away on Thursday, June 13, 2024.

Jim was born in Monroe, LA, on September 6, 1947, the son of the late Joseph Melton Smedley and Marguerite Wilson Searcy. He proudly served in the United States Navy during Vietnam. Jim retired from The Times Free Press after 30 years of service. He was a member of Middle Cross Church and loved studying his Bible. Jim was an avid Tennessee Vols fan and enjoyed fishing, bowling, and traveling internationally with his wife. He loved the Lord and his family above everything.

Survivors include his wife, Dora Yarbrough Smedley, to whom he was married on April 24, 1970; son, Brandon Smedley (Marie Smedley-Louvrier); daughter, Stacey Smedley Roberts; and three grandchildren, Jean Smedley, Ely Roberts, and Norah Smedley.

A Celebration of Life will be Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Heritage Funeral Home with Carl Hubbart officiating. Interment will follow at Longshore Cemetery in Collinsville, AL.

Visitation will be Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home.

Flowers accepted or memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, www.donate.cancer.org or P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.

Visit the online obituary www.heritagechattanooga.com to post tributes and share memories.

Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel.

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