James (Jim) F. Nelms, 89, passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2017, just two hours shy of his 90th birthday. He was born in Surgoinsville, TN on May 18, 1927 to John L. Nelms and Ardis Henard Nelms. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Nell Jo Anderson Nelms, to whom he was faithfully married for 62 years.
He is survived by his sister, Martha Nelms Potter, of Kingsport, TN, and his three sons: John (Debbie) of Advance, NC; Jimmy (Julie) of Charlottesville, VA; and Joe David (Annette) of Lindale, TX. He is also survived by his five grandchildren: Jared, Jessica, Grace, Joy and Hope along with several nieces and nephews.
Jim graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1948. He then went on to serve 18 months in the U.S. Navy before graduating from UT Law School in 1951. Upon completion of his law degree Jim served one year as a lawyer for the Federal Trade Commission.
In 1952 Jim married his beloved Jo and started his career with State Farm Insurance as a claims adjuster. He progressed quickly up the ranks from Claims Adjuster to Claim Superintendant in Johnson City, TN to Divisional Claim Superintendant in Murfreesboro, TN to Regional Manager for St. Louis, MO before settling in Charlottesville, VA as Deputy Regional Vice President, where he served for 23 years. In all, Jim’s career with State Farm spanned 40 years before retiring in 1992. During his time with State Farm, he and Jo raised three wonderful sons and had the opportunity to travel extensively with the SF Millionaire’s Club from 1982-1992.
Since retirement Jim enjoyed being a ranger at UVA’s Birdwood Country Club and attending many UVA sporting events throughout the years. Jim also served as a deacon and trustee for First Baptist Church, as a board member for the Rotary Club, the Ronald McDonald House, the Salvation Army, and he was part of the Scottish Rite.
Jim touched many lives over the years. He saw the potential in people and was good at pointing it out. He was intentional with his words and he left a trail of encouragement behind him because of it. He will be truly missed.
A memorial service will be conducted 11 a.m. Saturday, May 27, 2017 at the First Baptist Church on Park Street with Reverend Joel Jenkins officiating and a reception to follow from 12-2 p.m. For those interested, there will be an opportunity to meet with the family before the service from 10-11 a.m. in the sanctuary. A small family interment service will be conducted 2 p.m. Sunday, May 28, 2017 at the Monte Vista Memorial Park in Johnson City, TN.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Salvation Army of Charlottesville, VA, 207 Ridge Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Teague Funeral Home.
June 6, 2017
To all:
Mike and I want to express our delight at having known Jim as a dear neighbor for the past 38 years. We will miss his kind words and jovial demeanor. He kept his yard beautifully an was generous with advise when asked as to how to best keep our grass healthy. His diligence in caring for Jo for all the years when she struggled with back problems, etc was quite remarkable. Well done, good and faithful servant!
May 24, 2017
Patty Smithdeal Fulton
Jim was very special to members of Jo's Science Hill class. He attended reunions and became one of us! His love and remarkable care of Jo was amazing. A wonderful man to be remembered by family and friends. Please know you are in our prayers.
May 24, 2017
Larry Chapman
My condolences and prayers for the family. Jim was a good friend during my years with State Farm.He was very caring and always had a smile on his face.
May 23, 2017
Sharon Beck
I still remember the time he came across me and my coworkers standing at the door before the 4:15 bell. He was always so nice...and funny. He was a vital part of the Eastern Regional Office during his tenure. RIP Mr. Nelms...and my condolences to the family.
May 23, 2017
Sheila Bernard
Mr. Nelms was a wonderful leader at State Farm. He always took the time to make sure he connected with us. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. He loved his family very much.
May 21, 2017
David Glosser
James , better known as, Jim, was great an awesome fellow. I think anyone who met him would say he was a righteous and caring man. He raised three fine sons, but he was the blueprint. State Farm was his passion besides loving his wife, family and God. We neighborhood kids will never forget Jim. Rest In Peace now.
May 21, 2017
Bill Smith
I grew up in Charlottesville right along side Joe David, Jim and John. Spent a whole lot of time at the Nelms. Guys, your mom and dad were such good people. James was a man that every kid in the neighborhood looked up to; just a special person. I am so grateful he was such a big part of my youth. Peace be with you all.
May 21, 2017
Janet Armentrout
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Jim and Jo were dear to me when I worked for Dr David Morris.
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