Mr. Jimmy Lee Slaton

Jimmy Lee Slaton, Sr., affectionately known as "Slate," was born on October 31, 1944, in Woodbury, Georgia, to Ruby Marshall and Olin Slaton. He was lovingly raised by a supportive community that included Mr. Mahone and Mama Annie. Jimmy was drawn to service from an early age, serving as senior class treasurer before graduating from Woodbury High School in 1965. Three years later, he enlisted in the Army and served in the Vietnam War. His military service continued until 1996, including time in the Army Reserve.

A gifted artist, Jimmy moved to Atlanta to immerse himself in the city's art scene, attending classes and honing his craft. During this time, he met the love of his life, Patricia Tomlin, through the matchmaking efforts of a family friend. They married on December 24, 1973, and were two months shy of celebrating 51 years of marriage before Jimmy’s passing.

Jimmy was a man of few words, but when he spoke, people listened. He was not one to waste words or time—everything he said carried meaning. A gentle giant, he expressed his love through service and care for others. He was a true provider, not only for his family but also for his friends and his community. Many in the metro Atlanta area sought his help, and he gave it freely. Whether volunteering as part of the military honor guard for veterans across Georgia, offering support in leadership roles with Alcoholics Anonymous, or simply being a friend to those in need, Jimmy was always ready to lend a hand.

A message written to him in his 1965 yearbook seemed to capture the guiding principles of his life: "Jimmy, you should be thankful for all the good things that have happened to you and grateful for all the people who took an interest in you and pushed you on. Show this thankfulness and gratefulness by pushing on and not stopping at this stage of the game. You can do it if you try. May the best be yours in the future." —G.R.W. Those who knew and loved him are committed to continuing his legacy of love, service, and care in his honor.

After a lengthy illness, Jimmy Slaton, Sr. passed away early Sunday morning, October 13, 2024. He leaves behind three children, Jimmy Jr., Jackie, and Jarvis, whom he shared with his wife of nearly 51 years, and a large extended family who will cherish his memory: Ann Slaton, Matthew Render, Ruby Nell Render, Roosevelt Render, Augusta Render, Leila Render, Faith Slaton, Barbara Tyler, and Lonnie Tomlin, III.

Those proceeding with Jimmy’s death include Ruby Marshall, Olin Slaton, Aretha Slaton Johnigan Farley, Willie L. Render, Melvin Render, Lonnie, and Virginia Tomlin, Jr.

His legacy of love, service, and kindness will live on through the many lives he touched.

Jimmy’s funeral and viewing will be with Floral Hills Funeral Home, Cremation Services & Memory Gardens at 3150 Lawrenceville Hwy, Tucker, GA 30084.

If you would like to send flowers, send them to Floral Hills. In lieu of flowers, send any donations to the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) using their website https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org.