James Vernon Delk

James Vernon Delk, age 75, of Whitwell, TN, finished the race, gained the grand prize and went home to be with the LORD on August 25, 2025. He was born on April 26, 1950, in Columbia, TN, to the late Allen and Mildred Delk.

James was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother. He married the love of his life, Kathryn E. Delk, in 1972, and together they built a strong and loving family. He is survived by his children: Jonathan (April) Delk of Cookeville, TN, Joe (Jocelyn) Delk of Ringgold, GA, and Craig (Beth) Delk of Cookeville, TN; his sisters, Mary Jayne (Les) Jones and Fay Delk; his beloved grandchildren, Isaac Delk, Abigail Delk, Andrew Delk, Rebekah Delk, Rachel Delk and Margaret Delk; as well as nephews, nieces, and great-nephews and great-nieces.

A man of deep faith, James was a longtime member of Whitwell Church of Christ, serving as an elder for more than 30 years. He was always ready to help wherever needed, whether in a public way by teaching Bible classes or preaching, or behind the scenes providing comfort and support to people in need. One of his frequent sayings was, “Remember who you are.” It was his way of reminding us that Christians wear the name of Jesus wherever we go, and that we are bought with the blood of Christ.

James was also committed to education, serving as a teacher for more than40 years, including more than 25 at Taft Youth Center. An incredibly intelligent man, he earned his associate’s degree from Columbia State Community College, and his bachelor’s, master’s and E.d.s. degrees from Tennessee Tech University.

Another passion for James was his involvement in civic and community service, notably with the Lions Club and Ruritan Club. He could frequently be seen selling pecans to help raise money for service initiatives, and for many years he worked at the Lions Club’s Walking Horse Celebration concession stand in Shelbyville. James had recently been chosen as Vice District Governor for the Lions Club’s District 12 S.

James was a tireless worker throughout his life. In addition to his teaching career, he worked various other jobs to help support his family, including at the sawmill and the mines in his earlier years, and later on for decades as a tax preparer.

An avid beekeeper, James enjoyed producing honey, and his products could be found at many local stores. That passion has in recent years been passed along to his son Joe.

James will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his steadfast faith, and the lasting impact he had on his students and his community.

His family will receive friends from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Central on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at Whitwell Memorial Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 1 p.m., with Brother Daryel Haynes officiating. Interment to follow at Whitwell Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Leader Dogs for the Blind at LeaderDog.org, or to the Celebrate Recovery ministry in Jasper.

Share your memories, photos and condolences atwww.whitwellmemorialfuneralhome.com

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