James McKenzie

Jim was born in Chattanooga on February 18, 1930 to the late James E. McKenzie & Faye Hester McKenzie. He was preceded in death by his brother, David Lawrence McKenzie. Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Rosemary (Rose) White McKenzie; children Mary Colin McKenzie York and James (Jim) E. McKenzie, III (Katie); grandchildren Ryan York, Jay McKenzie and Mac McKenzie; great grandchildren, Emmett York and Esme’ McKenzie; and sister Judy Sheldon.

Jim grew up in Chattanooga and graduated from Baylor School in 1948 where he was a standout athlete, later going on to graduate from Georgia Tech. He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran and served as a fighter pilot. He worked for many years with his cousin at Kenco and was a pioneer in contract warehousing.

He was a long-time member of Rivermont Presbyterian Church, the Chattanooga Golf & Country Club and Craft Farms Golf Club in Gulf Shores, AL. Jim began shooting his age in golf at age 69, a streak that continued until he was 82, when a year later his health declined, and he could no longer play golf. At age 75 he won the Super Seniors Club championship at Craft Farms and was invited to compete against other senior golfers in Hawaii, which was a quite a thrill for both Jim & Rose.

Following in his parents’ footsteps, Jim was also a Life Master Bridge player.

The essence of Jim’s life could be summed up in three words: faith, family and friends. “Mr. Moon, or simply “Moon” as he was called by his friends, had an undeniable zest for life. Jim and Rose shared a long, beautiful life together in Chattanooga and Gulf Shores, AL., always seeming to light up the most when surrounded by family and close friends.

Jim enjoyed fishing in the Gulf of Mexico with his friends in his boat, aptly named “JEM’s GEM”. Storms often popped up quickly in the summers in the Gulf. Once while Jim was fishing with some Chattanooga friends lightning struck their boat. It destroyed the boat’s instrument paneling and caused other damage to the boat, but they were unharmed and grateful to be alive and to enjoy their catch that evening!

During the last four months in particular, the family would like to give special thanks to all his care givers for their compassion, devotion and care.

A private graveside service will be held on Friday, May 1st, at the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in Jim’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the charity of your choice.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.