James E Jaggers

Jim was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on September 20, 1947, to James Jaggers and Christine Dennison. He was raised in several different places as his family moved frequently due to military service, by his mother and Glen Sims, his stepfather, whom he proudly considered his father. Once the family settled in Louisville, he attended Western High School.

Jim proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 11 years before beginning a long career as an Architectural Technician with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where he worked for many years before retiring. He took great pride in his work and would often point out buildings and projects he helped design, sharing those moments with his family with quiet pride.

Jim met Linda Bruner Jaggers in junior high school, and the two went on to share 40 years of marriage together. They built a loving home in Louisville and raised a close-knit family. Jim was a devoted husband, and he and Linda shared a life built on partnership and friendship, doing nearly everything together and enjoying a long and beautiful retirement side by side.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Jaggers, and his children: Brian Jaggers (Debbie), Karen Jaggers, Rebecca Phelps (Kyle), and Jennifer Pardon (Darryl).

Jim was a proud grandfather to Cassie Jaggers, Fisher Johnson, Morgan Jaggers, Addison Jaggers, Clara Pardon, and Henry Pardon, and he especially loved watching them grow and hearing about their activities. He loved spending time with them and always made time to play, whether it was cooking in the toy kitchen or building train tracks. Jim proudly bragged about his grandchildren to anyone who would listen, and they all loved him dearly. He also loved sharing his knowledge and hobbies with them, patiently showing them how to do things and encouraging their curiosity.

He is also survived by his siblings: Dave Sims, Donald Sims (Faye), and Larry Jaggers (the late Connie Jaggers).

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Christine Sims and Glen Sims, and his siblings Glenda Lasley, William Sims (Jackie), and Ronald Sims.

Jim was known as a hard worker, loyal friend, and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He had a friendly nature and was truly a friend to all, never meeting a stranger and always seeing the best in people. He enjoyed studying architecture, fishing, collecting rocks, coins and stamps, and drawing. He loved trying new foods and even made friends with his favorite local restaurant owners.

In addition to his professional career, Jim generously volunteered his time supporting his children and grandchildren’s schools and activities.

Jim found great happiness in spending time with his family and in the work he did throughout his life. He taught those around him the value of hard work, doing things right the first time, and building things that last, along with an appreciation for learning and how things work.

With a friendly smile and a kind word for everyone, Jim made the world a little brighter for those around him.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 18, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Heady-Hardy Funeral Home, 7710 Dixie Highway, Louisville, Kentucky 40258.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, March 19, at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Jim will be cremated, with his ashes interred at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central (Radcliff) at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.