James Matthew Walden
January 1, 1957 �" October 6, 2026
James Matthew Walden, 69, of Jonesborough, Tennessee, passed away on October 6, 2026, after a courageous battle with dementia. Known to family and friends as Jim or Wally, he was born on New Year's Day in Bay Shore, New York, and his life exemplified the values of hard work, precision, and devotion to family.
Jim spent his entire career at Sea Ray boats, where he worked his way up to Manager of Quality Control Inspection. His colleagues knew him as someone who was reliable and took care in his work. Those same principles shaped who he was, a man of integrity and quiet strength.
Outside of work, Jim lived fully. He was an accomplished beach volleyball player, an avid bike rider, and a devoted boater who loved being on the water. He was a passionate Miami Dolphins and Merritt Island Mustangs fan who rarely missed a big game. But his greatest joy was being present for his daughters, showing up at their sporting events and other activities throughout their lives. That presence and support extended to his grandchildren, Quinn and Graham, with whom he shared precious months in Tennessee, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Jim was a man who understood the value of a dollar and the importance of building a secure future. He and his wife Betty remained devoted partners who supported each other and their daughters through all of life's seasons. Though Betty preceded him in death just seven months earlier after her own battle with illness, their commitment to each other endured. After Betty's passing, Jim took seriously his responsibility for caring for Otto, her beloved dog, honoring the love they shared.
Jim is survived by his children Megan Roberts (and son-in-law Ross Roberts) and Riley Walden, his grandchildren Quinn and Graham Roberts, his siblings Sue Valentino, Don Walden (and his wife Charlene Walden), and Peggy Morris (and her husband Dean Morris), and his niece Jillian Powell (and her husband Jeff Powell) and their children Eddie and Emilee. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Margaret Walden.
The family will celebrate Jim's life privately with close family and friends. I
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org/donate in his memory.
Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.dillow-taylor.com
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN 423-753-3821
