James "Jim" R. Warren Sr.

James “Jim” R. Warren, Sr., a devoted husband of 69 years to his beloved wife, Rose, and a proud father, grandpa, great-grandpa, and great-great-grandpa, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, at the age of 89.

Born on May 16, 1936, in a log cabin along the Watauga River in Zionsville, North Carolina, Jim was the son of the late Ella and Luke Warren. His humble beginnings shaped a life rooted in resilience, hard work, and strong values that carried him through every chapter of his life.
 

He proudly served 22 years in the United States Navy, rising through the ranks to become a Senior E-8 Master Chief. His first deployment was aboard the USS Shangri-La (CVA-38), where his journey in naval service began. Over the years, he earned the respect of those around him through his leadership, integrity, and steady presence. Of all his time in service, his deployment aboard the USS Reeves (CG-24) and USS Sperry (AS-12) remained especially meaningful to him—an experience he often reflected on with pride and a deep sense of camaraderie. His service to his country was not just a duty—it was a calling he carried with honor.
 

Following his retirement from the Navy, Jim began a second career with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 474, where he worked for 23 years. As a union electrician. He was an active and proud member of the Bee Club and the 110 Club, and he was also a founding member of the Kilowatt Cookers—where camaraderie, good food, and brotherhood were always at the center. His involvement in these groups reflected not just his love for his trade, but the relationships and community he built along the way.
 

To his family, Jim was a steady and dependable presence. He led by example, offering guidance, support, and quiet strength. He found great joy spending time with his bride, traveling and spending many winters in Texas, afternoon happy hour socials, and on the Tennessee River with his family and friends. His greatest fulfillment came from the time he shared with those he loved.
 

Jim is survived by his wife of 69 years, Rose Marie; his children, 2 daughters; Pam Pratt (Johnny), Joanne Reeves (Ray); 7 grandchildren, Wendy Robinson(Doug), Keith Reeves (Bridget), Justin Reeves, Ashley Tubbs (Matt), Jeremy Warren (LeAnn), Lisa Brougthon (Justin), Christina Flowers (Trent); 15- great-grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren and a host of extended family and friends who will miss him deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ella and Luke Warren, and 3 sons Jerry Warren, James R. Warren Jr. and Perry Warren. 
 

Visitation will be held at Parsons Mortuary on Sunday April 19, 2026, from 11:00am – 9:00pm and Monday April 20, 2026, from 9:00am until time of service. Funeral service will be held on April 20, 2026, at 2:00pm in the Parson Mortuary Chapel with burial to follow in the Darden Cemetery in Darden, TN. Pallbearers will be Jeremy Warren, Keith Reeves, Justin Reeves, Matt Tubbs, Justing Broughton and Trent Flowers. 
 

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to his dedicated caregivers—Clarrisa Maness, Cassie Winters, Hannah Ivey, Danny Lawson, and Virginia Sims—whose compassion, support, and care made it possible for him to remain in the comfort of his home during for the last 2 years. Their kindness and commitment will always be remembered with deep gratitude.

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