James "Jim" Gordon Keown

James G. Keown, known as Jim, passed away on September 5, 2025, at the age of 86 at Erlanger Hospital. A lifelong resident of Chattanooga, Tennessee graduating from Central H.S. in 1957. Jim spent four years serving in the Navy in California and Florida and two years in engineering at U.T. Knoxville.

Jim had a successful career at IBM as a Customer Engineering Field Manager, becoming a member of the IBM Quarter Century Club. After retirement he owned a vending business and was active in Quixtar He join the Hamilton County Master Gardeners in 2006 and became a Lifetime Volunteer. He found joy in many passions as a master gardener, creating an award-winning backyard and was on the Garden Tour twice. He volunteered at the Chattanooga Aquarium. He also taught Sunday school.

Jim had a passion for crossword puzzles, movies, cooking, and playing tennis. He will be remembered for his fabulous Super Bowl parties and carrot cake. He most loved vacationing with his wife, Linda, on numerous cruises. His face would light up when planning on returning to their condo at Hilton Head.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Parker Robinson, his sister, Doris Ann Green, and his daughter, Joan Elizabeth Keown.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Busby Keown, his daughter, Elaine Akin of Houston, his granddaughter, Chloe Akin of Houston, and his brother, Haydon Keown.

He will be remembered for his kindness, his dedication to his community, and the joy he brought to those around him.

Visitation will be at 11 - 1 on Tuesday September 16, 2025, at Christ United Methodist Church, 8645 E. Brainerd Road.

A memorial service will begin at 1:00 PM in the Christ Church sanctuary with Pastor David Hall officiating.

The committal service with U.S. Navy funeral honors will be held at 2:30 PM in the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Visit www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com to share condolences and view the tribute.

Arrangements entrusted to Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel.