Jim was born on January 15, 1941 to Fred and Edith (Hatcher) Wohlwend in Wildwood, TN. He graduated from Everett High School in Maryville, TN. He then attended Carson Newman College where he met his wife, Janet. They moved to Memphis together as Jim attended dental school at the University of Tennessee. As a dentist, he served in the United States Navy, and retired as a Captain after 28 years of service. While in the Navy, he was stationed at the Marine Corp Air Station in Beaufort, SC. Following his service in the Navy, he continued to practice dentistry as he served the community of Morristown. Additionally, Jim was the first dentist to volunteer for First Love on Main ministry. Outside of work, he enjoyed fishing on Fripp Island, adventuring with his friends and family on the 4 J’s Farm, and investing in his church community at First Baptist Church Morristown. Through his church, he was an active member and volunteer for Tennessee Disaster Relief. Jim also served as a deacon and Sunday school leader with his wife, Janet. They were also involved in the God’s Warehouse ministry. He had a passion for missions and spreading the love and gospel of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Those who knew Jim will remember his infectious laugh, warm personality, generous spirit, and remarkable ability to never meet a stranger. He was a devoted and loving husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a cherished friend to many. Above all, Jim was a man of unwavering faith, whose life reflected honor, integrity, and genuine kindness to everyone he met. While his presence will be deeply missed, our family finds comfort in knowing that Jim is now rejoicing with the Lord—fully healed, at peace, and experiencing the fullness of eternal life. Though we grieve his absence, we celebrate the legacy of faith, love, and compassion he leaves behind.
He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 62 years, Janet Cox Wohlwend; his daughters, Angela Tenpenny (Michael), Wendy Chambers (Jon), and Jana Janssen (Erik); his grandchildren, Anna Kate Tenpenny Nicely (Preston), Emma Blackburn [Chambers], Lauren Tenpenny Schriver (Austin), Henry Chambers, Lola James Janssen, Ava Chambers, and Jude Janssen; his great-grandchild, Everett James Nicely, baby girl Nicely (due Nov.), and baby boy Schriver (due Jan.); his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Earlene Cox Clubb and Ray Clubb; his sister-in-law, Kerma Wohlwend (David).
He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred Wohlwend and Edith Hatcher Wohlwend; his brother, Dr. David Wohlwend; his sister, Carolyn Wohlwend Robbins (Bill).
Please join us as we celebrate and honor the life of Jim on Friday, July 17th. The family will receive friends from 12-2pm, followed by a funeral service in the Morristown First Baptist Church sanctuary. Immediately following the funeral we will proceed to Hamblen Memory Gardens for a graveside service. Your love, prayers, and presence are deeply appreciated during this time.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “Missions Ministry” through First Baptist Church Morristown or God’s Warehouse, 3441 W Andrew Johnson Hwy, Morristown, TN 37814.
