James Wesley Avril, Sr, 74 of Brentwood, Tennessee, passed away Friday April 25, 2025. James was born September 27, 1950, in Nashville, Tennessee to William B. and Vera W. Avril. He was a 1968 graduate of Donelson High School.
Following high school, James began a career as a police officer with the Metro Police Department. During this time, he built a legacy of hard work, loyalty and compassion, helping organize the Nashville Children's Alliance and was a strong supporter of the FOP camps for children. He reached the rank of Lieutenant before his retirement after 28 years in 1995. James started a new career as the fleet and commercial manager at Serra Chevrolet in Madison, where he dedicated the last 30 years of service.
In 1971 James married Judith Pinson and together they spent the last 53 years together. They enjoyed their many travels to Hawaii, Alaska, the northeast as well as the western United States. James was a very giving person, with a warm heart who enjoyed serving others. He often would order lunch for the nursing staff during his recent rehab.
Family was the center of James’s world. He taught by example the values of integrity, perseverance and unconditional love. His home was always a place of laughter, love and comfort.
James was preceded in death by his parents; William B. and Vera W Avril, his in-laws, Johnny R. and Lorene P. Pinson, a son, James Wesley Avril, Jr. and a sister Faye Layne.
James leaves behind his loving wife of 53 years, Judith P. Avril, sisters, Nancy (Buddy) Clark and Doris Jenkins along with numerous nieces, nephews, countless friends and loved ones whose lives he touched.
A gathering of family and friends will be held Thursday May 1, 2025, from 12:00 – 2:00PM at the Hermitage Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 535 Shute Lane, Old Hickory, TN where services will be held in the Tulip Grove Chapel of the funeral home with Dr. Garry Speich officiating. Interment to follow in the Hermitage Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Nashville Children's Alliance, Alive Hospice or the Andrew Jackson Police Youth Camp.
