James Lester Terrell, beloved son of Lester Lawrence Terrell and Lea Jordan Pearcy, peacefully passed away on August 29, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and service. Born on February 13, 1948, James grew up in western Kentucky, where he developed a love for sports, especially basketball and cross country, at Trigg County High School, from which he graduated in 1966.
After high school, James married the love of his life, Judy Carol Boren, on June 15, 1968. Shortly thereafter, he served his country with distinction as a Sergeant in the 173rd Airborne Brigade during the Vietnam War. His bravery and dedication earned him the Purple Heart, a testament to his courage and sacrifice.
Upon returning home, James and Judy built a life centered around faith, family, and community, raising four children: Kevin, Amy, Charles, and LeNell. James worked for 16 years at Hoover in Cadiz before embarking on a new career with the United States Postal Service in Cerulean, Kentucky, where he served faithfully until his retirement in 2008.
In 1992, James played a pivotal role in establishing the South Road Volunteer Fire Department, where he served on the board for nearly three decades. His dedication to his community was evident in every aspect of his life.
A devoted leader in his church, James served as Sunday School Director, teacher, mentor, and missionary. His passion for sharing the love of God took him to various places, including Ohio, Georgia, Kentucky, and even Kenya, Africa, where he touched countless lives with his compassion and unwavering faith.
James leaves behind a cherished legacy of loving God and loving others, a heritage he passed on to his four children, thirteen grandchildren, and an eagerly awaited great-grandchild. James is also survived by Judy, his loving wife of 56 years, and his sister, Zilla (Jerry) Cansler of Hopkinsville. His life was a shining example of dedication, faith, and service, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
James Lester Terrell’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his legacy of faith and service will continue to inspire generations to come.
Arrangements are being handled by Goodwin Funeral Home, Inc., 138 Main Street in Cadiz, where the family will receive friends after 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 31, 2024. Funeral services will be at Goodwin Funeral Home at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 1, 2024, with Bro. Robby Shearon and Bro. Steve Hardy officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in Trigg Memory Acres.
The funeral service will be live-streamed at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 1, 2024, on our YouTube channel at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/user/goodwinfuneralhome1/
Memorial contributions can be made to New Hope Baptist Church, c/o Greg Taylor, 2821 S Montgomery Rd, Cadiz, KY 42211.
