James Stites

James C. Stites, 90, died on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2014. Jim was born in Henderson, Ky., and even as a young man, showed his true spirit by persevering and achieving the honor of Eagle Scout. At 18, Jim joined the Army where he served his country well in WWII, was captured, and helped several of his fellow American soldiers escape. When Jim was honorably discharged from the Army at 21, he held the title of staff sergeant and was decorated with a bronze star and a purple heart because of his brave efforts. He then attended the University of Kentucky where he graduated with a degree in electrical engineering. Jim worked for Westinghouse for 40 years. He has been positively affecting others and changing lives every single day for the last 90 years, and because of him, the world is truly a better, brighter place. Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Lynn Carter Stites; his father, Richard Stites; and his brother, Richard Stites Jr. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Marilee; his children, Lee, Neal and Janet; his daughters-in-law, Laura and Corinne; and his grandchildren, Hannah, Kathryn, Samuel and Ella. A memorial service will be held from 6-9 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2014, at 2nd Presbyterian Church, 700 Pine St., Chattanooga, TN 37402. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Matthews Homeless Shelter care of 2nd Presbyterian Church with the above address.