James "Jim" Weldon Pettigrew

Born on November 11,1934, in Shawnee, Oklahoma, Jim lived a life dedicated to serving Jesus, family, friends, and being a mentor and caretaker to all. He was a man of humor and compassion whose quiet kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He enjoyed spending time with his children, including taking them on weekend water skiing adventures, fishing and playing golf. Jim loved riding his motorcycle, working in his greenhouse and growing grapes, fruits, and flowers; and working in his wood shop, where he masterfully crafted just about anything he could imagine.

Jim served in the United States Navy with posts including Guam – Mariana Islands and Japan. After his Naval service, he attended and graduated from Oklahoma State University, then passed his certification as an Engineer through the Oklahoma State Board for Professional Engineers. Jim worked for the US Army Corps of Engineers for many years, at different locations including Little Rock, Arkansas; Jackson, Mississippi; New Albany, Indiana; and then Wilmington, North Carolina, where he lived for many years until his retirement. After retiring from the Corp, he owned a Dairy Queen franchise in Wilmington, NC for 5 years. During his retirement years Jim also performed construction contract work on Figure 8 Island and traveled to a variety of craft festivals selling his woodwork. He was a man of many talents.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Glenda Marie Lord Pettigrew, in July 2017; his parents Leslie Marvin Pettigrew, Mildred Pearl Redding Pettigrew; his brother Joseph Elden Pettigrew; and a sister Judith K Tolley.

He is survived by his loving partner, Gudi Ennett, who brought joy and companionship to his later years; his children, Denise Threatt (Johnny), Angela Paul (Ken) and Karen Davis; his grandchildren, Preston Davis, Justin Davis (Jessica), Kevin Paul, Jill Schweigart (Luke), Alaina Threatt, Kevin Threatt, 7 great-grandchildren; and many loved nieces, nephews, dear friends and extended family members.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 21st at Coble Funeral Home, 1155 Shipyard Blvd, Wilmington, NC. Visitation will be from 1 – 2 pm with the service beginning at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Christian Motorcyclists Association. Make checks payable to CMA and mail to: Paul Elswick, (CMA Chapter Pres,) 3972 Sourwood Court, Leland, NC 28451.