James Reynold Selvey

James Reynold Selvey, known lovingly as Jim, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on June 21, 2025, at the age of 85. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and man of faith, Jim passed away peacefully in Collierville, Tennessee. He was born on January 16, 1940, in Cumberland, Kentucky.

Jim proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1961 to 1968, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. After his military service, he began a career as an air traffic controller. During the nationwide air traffic controllers’ strike, his service in that role was interrupted, leading him to a career with the Tennessee Department of Corrections for 16 years. Later, he was rehired as an air traffic controller and went on to retire in 2005.

He was an active member of the Collierville Masonic Lodge, where he served as Past Master, and was also a faithful member of the Scottish Rite. Jim and his wife Trudy were dedicated members of First Baptist Church of Collierville, where they found great joy and fellowship in worship and community.

A man who loved God’s creation, Jim was an avid outdoorsman who found peace in hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. He especially loved RVing and sharing adventures with his beloved wife, Trudy. Above all, Jim cherished time with his family, which was the cornerstone of his life.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Anna Ruth “Trudy” Selvey; his children, Mike and his wife Janis Selvey, and Pat and her husband Barry Pate; his beloved grandchildren, Kendel and her husband Kirk Berend, and Austin and his wife Tyler Pate; and his two cherished great-granddaughters, Reese Berend and Andi Pate.

Jim is also survived by his loving sisters, Shelby Short, Sue McAdams and Margaret Morgan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman Reynold Selvey and Zella Sturgill Selvey as well as his brother, Bill Selvey.

Jim lived a life grounded in faith, service, and love. His legacy will endure in the lives he touched, the values he instilled, and the memories shared by those who knew and loved him. He leaves behind a testimony of quiet strength, humility, and unwavering devotion to God and family.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 24, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Collierville Funeral Home (3863 Bailey Station Road, Collierville, TN 38017), with funeral services immediately following at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Baptist Reynolds Hospice House (Collierville, TN) or to a charity of your choice.