Mr. James H. “Jim” Eldridge, age 87, Jonesborough, passed away Saturday, July 10, 2021 at his residence.
Mr. Eldridge was born in Lenoir City, Tennessee and the son of the late Albert J. & Malissia Alexander Eldridge. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Barbara C. Eldridge in 2008, a son, William “Billy” Eldridge in 2004 and a brother, William Eldridge.
He was a member of Boones Creek Baptist Church.
Jim, also known as “Ole Watermelon Man”, had a BS degree from UT Knoxville in Agronomy. He retired in 1986 from the United States Department of Agriculture as a District Soil Conservationist after serving 26 years. In 1977, Jim started the Washington County Soil Conservation District Youth Board for high school students within the Washington County School System. He also served on the Town of Jonesborough Tree & Townscape Committee and started several beautification projects.
Survivors include his children, Daniel Eldridge (Tammy), David Eldridge (Tina) and Lora Eldridge (Will Rhodes); grandchildren, Meredith Redman (Joseph); Abigail Eldridge, Collin Eldridge (fiancé Katie Beth Watts), Justin Eldridge (Whitney) and Ashley Atkins; great-grandchildren, Merritt Redman, Burkely Eldridge, Cody Atkins and Elliana Dane; sister, Mary Sue House; and several nephews and nieces.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Amedisys Hospice, Reola Hopkins, Marcella Widner, Betty Ford and Valerie Vines for their wonderful loving care.
Private entombment services will be conducted at Washington County Memory Gardens.
Pallbearers will be Justin Eldridge, Collin Eldridge, Joseph Redman, Will Rhodes and Dewayne Sparks. Honorary pallbearers will be Larry Huffine and Roy T. Foster.
In lieu of flowers, contributions for a scholarship in his memory can be made to the WCSCD Youth Board 1105 E. Jackson Blvd. #3, Jonesborough, TN 37659.
07/24/2021
Tracy Eldridge Andel
I am so sorry for your loss, praying for your family. It made me smile to see he was called "ole watermelon man" I would like to hear the story behind that. Those older Eldridges were good farmers. Uncle Ralph Eldridge used to leave watermelons in our yard on Sugarlimb when we were kids.
07/15/2021
bobby and della brown
we will miss jim a lot. he was so faithful to come to church. he was in our sunday school class and was a big part of us. we love you jim, see you again when we are all together again.
07/14/2021
Mike and Janice Freeman
Dan and Family, Please accept our sincere regrets for the loss of your farther. We will keep you and your family in our prayers and thoughts during this very difficult time.
Never met him but knowing Dan, Tammy, and Collin, he must have been a great man. Sincere condolences.
Dan and family- so sorry to learn of your dad’s passing. I have memories of him always being so nice anytime I was ever around. Your entire family is in my thoughts and prayers.
07/12/2021
Lowell And Carolyn Christian
Having known and served Mr Eldridge in my profession as a pharmacist, I always had the utmost respect for him and always enjoyed those times of interacting with him. He had such a wonderful outlook on life and knew how to put things in its proper perspective. We also know and highly respect Dan and David and the entire family. Our sincere condolences are with the family and our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Lowell and Carolyn
07/12/2021
Norman & Grace Pearson
Our heartfelt condolences to the entire Eldridge family on the loss of their Father. Grace and I send our love and support to all of you during this difficult time and pray that you may find peace and solace in the knowledge that he nows rests in heaven with our Saviour.
07/12/2021
Raymond (cakeman) & Janet Couch Bridwell
Dan & Tammie - We know your faith will sustain you through your grieving process. Prayers and Blessings.
07/12/2021
Debbie Collins
I'm so sorry for your loss. The Eldridge family is in my thoughts and prayers.
07/12/2021
Stella turnmire lewis
David my prayers r with u and your family during in the loss of your dad may prayers r with u and Tina remember the good time with your dad love u Stella
My condolences to Dan and the entire Eldridge family. God Bless
07/11/2021
Katie Flanagan
Jim was a wonderful man. He has many friends who love him and will miss his kindness and his sense of humor. He spoke often about his family and was very proud of all of them. He loved God and was secure in his faith. He made the world a better place by his time here. I pray that we will follow the example he has set for us.
