Jim Bear

James M. Bear, 84, of Jonesborough, passed away Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at Johnson City Medical Center. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force. Jim worked at Johnson-Hilliard as an excellent sheet metal mechanic and coppersmith and retired after over 40 years of service.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Edith Bear; brother, Clarence Bear; four sisters, Mabel Bear Depew, Reva Bear, Neva June Stine and Beulah Moore; and parents, James C. "Tots" Bear and Blanche Haynes.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Lorainne Clark of Alpharetta, GA; three sons, Steve Bear of Atlanta, GA, Dennis Bear of Fall Branch, TN, Roger Bear of Kingsport, TN; seven grandchildren, Michelle, Cassie, Stephen, Michael, Matthew, Danielle and Alexandria; two step-grandchildren, Addison and Ayden; nine great-grandchildren; sister, Mrs. Gertrude Cowden of Lexington, KY; half-sister, Christine Connor; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 31st, 2012 from 6-8:00 pm at Hamlett-Dobson, Kingsport. Funeral services will follow at 8:00 with Pastor J.W. Depew and Pastor Steve Pate officiating.

Graveside services will be held on Sunday, April 1st, 2012 at 10:00 am at Oak Hill Memorial Park. Military graveside rites will be conducted by American Legion Posts 3/265. Pallbearers will be Steve, Dennis, Roger, Matthew and Michael Bear and Todd Duncan.