James William Belt

James “Jim” William Belt, age 87, of Lookout Valley, TN, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on March 29, 2026. Born November 18, 1938, in Tennessee, Jim lived in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and was a lifelong believer in Jesus Christ and a member of the Baptist faith. Jim was a humble, devoted, independent, steadfast, diligent, intelligent, professional, positive, and quietly competent man—a provider, protector, and quiet pillar of strength to those who knew and loved him.

Jim lived his faith through quiet acts of love and service, embodying the words of James 3:13: “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” His life reflected this devotion through his care for his family.

Born to Thomas Henry Belt and Bernice Pauline Belt, Jim graduated from Chattanooga Central High School in 1956 and subsequently attended the University of Chattanooga. He later enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving from 1961 to 1965 as an Electronics Technician (ETR2), where he worked on radar systems aboard destroyers during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Following his honorable military service, Jim joined International Business Machines (IBM), where he spent 36 years repairing large-scale computer systems—work that demanded precision, patience, and a remarkable work ethic. When he retired in 2001, colleagues praised his “excellence” and “diligence,” and remembered him for his “positive attitude,” “intelligent and professional” manner, and quiet competence.

Jim was married to Claudia Belt for 54 years, honoring his vows in ways that set a standard of love, devotion, and integrity. He cared for her with unwavering dedication throughout their lives together and especially during her battle with dementia. He raised his sons with the same sense of honor and steadfastness he demonstrated in all areas of life.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents and his wife. Left to cherish his memory are his sons and daughters-in-law, Gordon Thomas Belt (Traci) and Daniel Paul Belt (Candice); two granddaughters, Shelby Elizabeth and Abigail Pauline Belt; and a devoted circle of family and friends who love him dearly.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Memorial Hospital and Hospice of Chattanooga for the compassion and dignity they provided in Jim’s final days. Though illness took him from this world, his family finds comfort knowing he is reunited with Claudia, made whole in Heaven.

The family will receive friends at the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, on Monday April 6, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A graveside service with military honors will be held at Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404, on Tuesday April 7, 2026, at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Chattanooga or a charity of your choice.

Please share your thoughts and memories of James online at www.chattanoogaeastchapel.com

Chattanooga Funeral Home East Chapel has been entrusted with his arrangements.