James "Pa Jim" Herron

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - James Herron, affectionately known as "Pa Jim" to many, passed away peacefully on Sunday March 22, 2026. Born on September 13, 1933, in Baxter, Tennessee, James exemplified a life of dedication, service, and unwavering love for those around him.

A graduate of Baxter Seminary, James was a man whose talents were as broad as his heart was generous. Known for his remarkable ability to build and repair anything, he was always ready and willing to lend a hand or share his expertise. This generosity of spirit extended beyond his family to the wider community, where he was deeply respected and admired.

His service to his country was a significant and defining chapter in his life. James proudly served in the United States Army, with the highlight of his military tenure being a part of a D.E.W. Operation, traveling through the Arctic at the Polar Ice Cap, an experience few can claim. He was also honored to be chosen as a guard at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a prestigious role he humbly declined to continue with in order to pursue other paths.

James’s professional life was marked by extraordinary longevity and commitment. He devoted 53 years to Builder's Supply Company in Cookeville, a career that left a lasting imprint on the local building community, who knew him not only for his work ethic but also for his kindness and dependability.

Faith played a central role in James’s life. He was a devoted member of Willow Avenue Church of Christ in Cookeville, a community to which he contributed generously and with great pride.

Outside of his professional and spiritual commitments, James found joy and fulfillment in spending quality time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. An avid camper and traveler, he was affectionately known as the man behind the video camera - capturing and preserving the memories of countless family events and sharing them with all who loved him.

James is survived by his son, Randy Herron, and daughter-in-law, Lori; grandchildren Lani (Ethan) Christian, James "Lance" (Katie) Herron, and Brady Herron; and six great-grandchildren: Cole, Dane, Lyndi, and Lylah Christian, along with Carter and Andrew Herron. The family eagerly anticipates the arrival of a seventh grandchild. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, all of whom cherished his presence in their lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and DeLina Randolph Herren; his wife of 57 years, Jo Ann Frizzell Herron; his siblings Otis Herren, Charles Herren, L.V. Herren, Odell Herren Clemmons, Orna Herren Henry, and Arvel Herren; and his first wife, Ruth Farley Herron.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home with Bro. Clarence Deloach officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Crest Lawn Memorial Cemetery with Bro. Billy Randolph officiating.

His family will receive friends Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and again Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Lance Herron, Brady Herron, Ethan Christian, Marcus McCaleb, Mark Herren, and Dan Herren, and assisting with the dads are Cole and Dane Christian and Carter Herron. Honorary Pallbearers will be all of the breakfast crew at Bojangles.

His life was a testament to hard work, devotion to family, and a spirit of generosity. He leaves behind a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who knew him. His steadfast presence, his hands that could build or fix anything, and his treasure trove of memories will continue to be a source of strength and inspiration for generations to come.

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.