James Albert Barrett, 86, passed away early on October 5, 2024, five days before his 87th birthday. His brothers, Donald Barrett and Stanley Taylor, and his sister, Barbara Jackson, preceded him in death.

James "Jim" is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Carol Barrett, his sons Kevin and James, and his Daughter-in-Law Laura. His greatest loves were his Grandchildren, Hudson, Taylor, Sawyer, and Anya as well as all of his nieces and nephews. Jim was a wonderful husband, father, Pop-Pop and friend to many. The most treasured thing to Jim was always family, ensuring he and Carol were always present at milestones in their sons' and grandchildren's lives. He will always be remembered as the go-to person to say the blessing at all family gatherings. Jim was friendly to everyone he encountered and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone, always wanting to learn more about the people around him.

Jim grew up in Rising Sun, Maryland, and served in the Navy for seven years as a proud sailor on the USS Lexington, CV-16. He then met his beloved wife, Carol, while stationed at Great Lakes Naval Air Station in Chicago. Jim and Carol then moved to Las Vegas, NV, where they raised their two sons in a close-knit neighborhood with great friends.

Jim had a great love for motorcycles, crossing the country numerous times with his sons and brother Stan on his trike, BMW R90s, and his 1984 Honda Goldwing. He also loved touring the country with his family in campers, trailers, and motorhomes, ensuring his sons could see as much of the country as possible while growing up.

Jim was a firefighter in Las Vegas for 26 years and retired as an Assistant Chief of the Clark County Fire Department in 1989. In 1992, Jim and Carol sold their house, put everything in storage, and traveled the country via a motorhome, searching for a new and exciting life. They settled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains town of Brevard, North Carolina, to start the next chapter of their lives and live out their retirement dream.

There will be no viewing or funeral per James' wishes.

In place of flowers, the family asks those who wish to send donations to St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Please visit ww.stjude.org and donate in memory of James A. Barrett, or visit the website, fill out the donation form and mail it to:

St. Jude's Hospital

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105