James Richard Gazaway, born October 13, 1934 in Gordon Co. Georgia, to the late Andrew and Arivie (Bunch) Gazaway, passed away at his home on February 09, 2026.

Senior Chief Petty Officer (E8) Jim Gazaway, was honorably discharged from the Navy after serving our country from October of 1952 through May of 1972, during both the Korean War and the Vietnam Conflict. He was not only an expert marksman in both rifle and pistol but also taught aviation navigation and survival skills to prop engine pilots as they transitioned to jet engine planes for the US Navy, Marine Corp, Army and Air Force. Additionally, Senior Chief Gazaway completed a variety of top-secret special assignments throughout his 20-year career.

During his tours of duty, Jim traveled to 38 countries and 49 of the US States. When asked he would say, "I've been halfway around the world In Allons, Jim continued his tradition of service by assisting in organizing and manning the Allons Volunteer Fire Department. He was an active member of Allons Baptist Church, as a choir member and teaching Sunday school for both children and adults for many years. He played on the church softball team and later coached as well.

He is greatly loved and will be missed by all his family, friends and the community. His legacy will be carried forward by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Gazaway is preceded in death by: siblings; Shirley Gilland, Nix Gazaway, Donald Gazaway, Joe Gazaway, Ralph Henry Gazaway, and Marie Panell, and two of his children: Jymmie Jacobson and Melissa Bramer.

Jim was survived by: his Wife; Patricia (Belew) Gazaway of Allons, TN, Siblings; Ray Gazaway of Boaz, AL, Linda Kay and her husband Alan Ledbetter of Albertville, AL, Phillip and Chris Gazaway of Duck Springs AL, along with Anthony and Susan of Sardis AL. His Children; Marie Armstrong of Allons, TN, Susan and Jay Hunter of Fredericksburg VA, Bret Dunning of Ashland, KY and Paige Gazaway of Allons TN, and his 12 Grandchildren, and 18 Great Grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held, Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 2:00PM in the chapel of Hall Funeral Home. The family will welcome visitors on Monday, February 16, 2026 starting at 4:00pm until 7:00pm, and again Tuesday until time of service.

There will be no graveside services, as the family has chosen a National Cemetery in Nashville, TN for his Honored Services to our country.