OBITUARY Jim Prichard November 22, 1940 – December 31, 2018 Sharps Chapel, Tennessee – On the morning of Monday, December 31, 2018, James Edwin “Jim” Prichard passed away peacefully at his home. A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at The Hill Church, 1216 Cedar Fork Road, Tazewell, Tennessee, on Saturday, January 5, 2019, at 12:00 noon. The family will receive friends for visitation at the Hill Church from 10:00 a.m. until the service hour on Saturday.
Born Friday, November 22, 1940, in Knox County, Kentucky, Jim lived a life full of adventure. From a young age, he had a passion for exploring, learning, and gaining new experiences. He often spoke of his childhood, horseback riding in the Arizona desert, being a member of the Headhunters car club in high school, and driving across the country with his family.
He graduated from West Phoenix High School. He went on to graduate from Arizona State University, where he was on the gymnastics and diving teams, as well as was an Arizona State Champion in trampolining. A man of many talents, Jim also had a passion for flying and photography – the two, he enjoyed combining.
After returning to Knox County, Kentucky, Jim met the love of his life. On June 27, 1971, he married Lynn Sutton Prichard. His greatest joy was to care for her with an endless love, and he did until his very last moment.
Together, they owned and operated Home Furniture Company and Creek Bank Photography in Barbourville, Kentucky. With a camera in hand, they preserved memories of families, old friends, new friends, and hometowns wherever they went for nearly 50 years. Jim and Lynn raised two sons, Kyle and Karl, in a home where adventure was encouraged, family came first, and love was always present.
He was truly the foundation of the Prichard family. He was a godly man, and shared his love for God through his strength, free spirit, compassion, grace, and happiness. He was patriotic and always supportive.
If Jim taught his family or friends anything, he taught them to love. He taught them to laugh, smile, and treasure time with one another. After retiring, he and Lynn settled at Norris Lake, and found home at the “Tennatucky,” where he would continue to spend countless mornings photographing fog over the water and evenings sipping merlot on the porch.
Most of the time, he could be found on an orange lawn mower, mowing over ten acres with pure glee. Tracking the weather and lake levels were a part of his daily routine, and he’d say “the water has been the lowest I’ve ever seen it,” nearly every winter. Like his father, he taught many to ski, an abundant to swim, and cheered for the most brave to take a jump off the “high dive”.
He liked all of his food extra crispy, and never turned down a bonfire. He believed kerosene would heal any injury and taught all his grandchildren to always have a properly stocked first aid kit. He enjoyed gatherings at the lake, and spent more time with the children than adults.
Famously known as “Papa” by many, Jim always had a young heart. Jim found joy in the smallest things in the most beautiful way – a fire in the potbelly stove, a cardinal sighting, making popcorn for his little ones, and bringing a cup of coffee to his wife. Most of all, he cherished being surrounded by family and friends.
Happiness would shine on his face and bring a smile that brightened the entire room. He leaves behind his loving wife, Lynn; sons, Kyle Prichard (Elora) and Karl Prichard (Amanda); sister, Dee White (Jim); beloved grandchildren, Lauren Kate Prichard, Rebecca Prichard, Kooper Prichard, Kameron Prichard, and Landon Johnson. He was also blessed with nieces, nephews, cousins, and many wonderful friends he loved so very dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford Tye “Pop” and Florence Evans “Mu” Prichard; sister, Anita Prichard Vick; and beloved dog, Flower. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who laughed and shared a hug with Jim, and asks in his memory to continue his joy and love. Flowers are welcome, and expressions of sympathy may be made to The Hill Church Building Fund, 1216 Cedar Fork Road, Tazewell, Tennessee 37879.
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