JAMES LEE FAIRBANKS

Johnston City-James Lee Fairbanks 89 passed away at 10:54 A.M. on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 in the VAMC in Marion.

James was born on July 30, 1932 in Mill Shoals the son of James and Opal (Carter) Fairbanks.

He moved to Johnston City at a young age.

He is survived by a brother, Artie Fairbanks of Phoenix, AZ; and a sister, Judy Nevitt of Naperville.

He married Delores Barth in 1952 and that lasted until 1968. She preceded him in death in September of 1991. To this marriage they had 3 children, Dennis Fairbanks of Marion, Leann (Fairbanks) Wise and husband Roy of Marion, and Elizabeth Fairbanks and fiancé Eddie Lambeth of Lexington, NC; a granddaughter, Racheal Wise of Marion and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Velda Rogers; two brothers, Billie Joe Fairbanks and Charles Douglas Fairbanks.

He was preceded in death by, Ina King, with whom he was together with for over 40 years.

Jim quit school to join the service, 1 ^st the Navy from November 15, 1949 to November 29, 1949 and then the Army from November 30, 1949 to August 4, 1952. He had to have his parents sign papers to enroll into the service. He was 17 years old at the time.

He was in the Korean War for 3 years. He worked security in his retirement. He was a OTR truck driver off and on for years. He worked for a time at the Franklin-Williamson County Workshop. He worked various jobs through out his life time. Too many to name.

He started going to the Marion VA in 1953, it was built in 1952. He knew the history of the VA up to present day. He knew about everything and enjoyed history.

He enjoyed having breakfast coffee at the J.C. DQ for years and enjoyed every one there up until the pandemic.

The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at the Marion VA.

He was a proud man and very independent and stubborn.

He loved to tell stories and jokes to anyone who would listen.

Memorials may be made to Veterans Honor Flight #5.

A graveside service will be held at the Mounds National Cemetery with graveside military rites on Friday June 10,2022 at 11:00 A.M..

Murman & Wilson Funeral Home in Johnston City is in charge of arrangements.