James Walter Goard

James Walter Goard, 96, of Donelson, passed away on October 31, 2025. He was born in the Halls Hill farming community of Murfreesboro, Tennessee on March 20, 1929. He was one of eight children born to the late Prudie Annie Lee Rogers and Charlie Washington Goard.

In addition to his parents, Walter is preceded in death by brothers Hobert, Edward (Ed), Valter, Kenneth; sisters Nonnie Compton, Marie Bly, Thelma Robinder; and infant son Jimmy. He is survived by his wife Mary Elizabeth (Liz), daughters Teresa Nacarato (Mike), Debbie Hayes (David), son Tim (Kimberlee), grandchildren Rusty Hayes (Sandy), Marcie Rainey (Casey), Benjamin Dukes, Matthew Hayes, Michael Nacarato (Stephanie), Carly Nacarato, Cody Davis (Caitlin), James Goard, and Kaylee Goard. Great grandchildren include Amiee McCarthy (Dustin), Fysher Hayes, Faythe Hayes, Michael Nacarato, Penny Nacarato, and great great granddaughter Lyla Ann McCarthy.

Walter served as a military police officer during the Korean War.

Walter and Liz eloped in 1952 and were married 73 years. They settled in Donelson where he worked as a barber for many many years. He also worked for Purolator as a delivery courier.

Walter and Liz were charter members of Two Rivers Baptist Church. He served in many capacities over the years, as deacon, in the children’s department and transporting guests of Room In The Inn. He enjoyed reading his Bible and watching his favorite church services. A perfect day to him was playing the piano or dobro, being surrounded by his family, enjoying a great meal and drinking his sweet tea. He had a gentle soul and was respected and loved by his friends and family.

Visitation with the family will be Wednesday, November 5, 2025 from 10 AM to noon at Hermitage Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 535 Shute Ln. Old Hickory, TN 37138. A celebration of life service will begin at noon. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers and great grandsons will serve as honorary pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Room In The Inn.

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