James Leon Simon

Jim was born on April 3, 1947 to Lana Alene (née Peebles) in Bakersfield, California. He grew up in Ely, Minnesota, and after graduating from Ely Memorial High School in 1965, Jim joined the US Army in 1967. While serving in the infantry in Vietnam, Jim earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star, among other decorations and commendations.

In 1972, Jim met Sally Tomasek in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Jim and Sally went on to have two children, Anthony and Rebecca.

Jim studied electrical engineering at Northwestern Electronics Institute and ambition drove him to a successful career in international sales of telecommunications technology for a number of leading global firms.

In retirement, Jim leaned into his lifetime hobby of woodworking, and many of his hand-built Woodstock Woodshop Adirondack chairs are enjoyed in backyards and beachfronts across the southeastern US.

Jim was an avid golfer. In addition to being a 30-year member of Eagle Watch Golf Club, he played courses from St. Andrews to Pebble Beach and everywhere in between.

Jim is preceded in death by his mother Lana, stepfather Leo, and dozens of beloved aunts and uncles. He is survived by his wife Sally, children Anthony (Gia) and Rebecca, and grandson Mattias.

Services will be held at Poole’s Funeral Home in Woodstock, Georgia, on December 7, 2025 at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Jim will be interred with honors at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia in a private ceremony.