James E. ‘Jimmy’ Ethridge
James E. “Jimmy” Ethridge, 93, of Cadiz, Ky., died Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024, at his home.
He was born on Sept. 10, 1931, in St. Louis, Mo., the son of Hiram and Catherine Bennett Ethridge.
Jimmy came from humble beginnings. Throughout his life he was dedicated to serving and honoring his country, as well as providing a better life for himself and his family.
He joined the United States Army at the tender age of 15 after boldly falsifying his birth certificate to serve his nation during its time of need. His military career began in the final moments of World War II in August 1945 and extended into the Korean War. His service was marked by honor and bravery, making him one of the last surviving members of the Greatest Generation.
Following his military service, Jimmy transitioned to a successful career in the automotive industry, beginning in sales. At the impressive age of 27, he became the youngest person in the United States to be awarded a Chrysler Dodge franchise, establishing Ethridge Motors. His business model led to further success when he was awarded a GMC Cadillac Pontiac dealership. Jimmy also owned a Goodyear Tire Center, as well as Ethridge Leasing.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jimmy was honored as a Kentucky Colonel and dedicated his time and energy as a life member of the VFW and the American Legion. He was also a proud 4th Degree Knight of Columbus. He was a devoted member of St. Stephen Catholic Church, where he forged many lasting friendships.
An avid outdoorsman, Jimmy loved the ocean, fishing, beach life, golfing, nature and hunting. He was fondly known as a “deer whisperer.” He was a proud Grandpa and deeply loved his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; by the love of his life and soulmate, Phyllis Stull; his only sister and best friend, Mary Francis Knight; his daughter, Cheryl Cunningham; a beloved grandson, Zachary Thomas; and a great-grandson, Liam McCord.
He is survived by his children, Cynthia Kamaski (Robert), James Edward Ethridge Jr., Jayme Ethridge Junker, John Ethridge (Denyse), Stefanie Scheubert (Clint) and adopted daughter Marsha Pater (Bill); his grandchildren, James Ethridge III, Kimberly McCord, Shannon, Matthew, Jordan and Trisha Junker and Sarah Ethridge; his great-grandchildren, Breanna and Ellie Beberg, Sienna Junker, Izzy, Marley and Gavin McCord; and very special friends Rita Hammock and Charlene Thomason.
Arrangements were handled by Goodwin Funeral Home Inc., 138 Main St., in Cadiz, Ky.
Funeral Mass, with military honors, was at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 1698 Canton Rd., in Cadiz, at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, with Father Gregory Trawick officiating.
Interment followed at 2 p.m. in Calvary Cemetery, 2501 Old Villa Ridge Rd., Villa Ridge.
Local arrangements were handled by Crain Funeral Home in Cairo.
Memorial contributions can be made to Pennyroyal Hospice, 220 Burley Ave., Hopkinsville, Ky. 42240.
To view the obituary or to leave an online condolence for the family, visit www.crainsonline.com.