James Edwin Chatham

James Edwin Chatham of Gainesville, Georgia, died peacefully on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at Sunrise at Webb Gin's Memory Care facility in Lawrenceville, GA.  Affectionately known as Jim, he recently celebrated his 94th birthday with family and friends.

Visitation will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home,  2030 Memorial Park Dr, Gainesville, GA 30504 on Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. The memorial service will be held at Poplar Springs Baptist Church, 3104 Poplar Springs Church Rd, Gainesville, GA 30507, Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., with interment to follow at Peachtree Memorial Park, 5051 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Norcross, GA 30092.

Jim was predeceased by his loving wife of 61 years, Barbara Chatham, his brother, Reverend William Henry Chatham of Walterboro, South Carolina, and son-in-law Norman White of Lawrenceville, GA.   He is survived by his daughter, Mrs. Elaine White of Lawrenceville, GA; grandson and granddaughter-in-law, Matthew and Jessie White of Lilburn, GA; granddaughter, Michelle Abdi of Charlotte, NC; and daughter Mrs. Linda Broadrick and son-in-law Bruce Broadrick of Fernandina Beach, Florida; grandson and granddaughter-in-law, Brett and Amber Broadrick of Gainesville, GA; grandson and granddaughter in law, Blake and Patricia Broadrick of Lawrenceville, GA; and grandson, Brian Broadrick of McDonough, Georgia.  Jim is also survived by 10 great grandchildren, Kyla, Rayna, and Lincoln White; Broughton, Marlo, Bennett, and Beau Broadrick; and Andrew, Keimy, and Liam Broadrick.

Jim was a long-time member and former Chairman of the Board of Deacons at Poplar Springs Baptist Church in Gainesville, GA. He sang in the choir for many years and served as a Gideon in Hall County.  His wife Barbara served in the Women’s Auxiliary.

He retired from General Motors Assembly Division after a successful career spanning 40 years. Starting out as a humble clerk in the mail room, he advanced to Assistant Comptroller at the Lordstown Assembly Plant in Lordstown, Ohio.  Jim also served in the Army Reserves for eight years. He and Barbara enjoyed square dancing in their younger years and playing bridge with friends and co-workers.

Jim enjoyed golf well into his eighties, traveling and attending gospel concerts, weekly card games and dinner with his beloved, long-time friends. 

He was a Godly example and will be greatly missed by family and friends who enjoyed his gentle spirit and warm sense of humor.

The family has requested donations be made to Poplar Springs Baptist Church, 3104 Poplar Springs Church Rd, Gainesville, GA 30507 or Moyo Missions, 5043 Bristol Industrial Way, Buford, GA 30518, 678.765.6999, moyo.org, in lieu of flowers.

Memorial Park Funeral Home 2030 Memorial Park Rd. Gainesville, GA 30504 is in charge of arrangements.

Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com