Ret. Lt. General James "Jim" Lovelace Jr.

James J. Lovelace Jr., of Holly Spring, NC, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Jim was the son of the late James and Maude Francis Lovelace and is survived by his stepmother, Lana Brayley. Jim was a man of great honor and dedication whose life was marked by his service to his country and a great love for his family.

Jim was born in Richmond, VA, on 22 September 1948, and he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army upon graduation from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1970. His military education includes the Field Artillery Basic and Advanced Courses, the Armor Advanced Course, the Armed Forces Staff College, the Command and General Staff College, and the Naval War College. He holds a Master's Degree in Physical Education from Indiana University, a Master's Degree in Management from Salve Regina University, and a Master's Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the United States Naval War College. Jim loved being a Soldier. He served his country with pride for 39 years in the U.S. Army, achieving the rank of Lieutenant General. During his distinguished military career, he inspired many, earning respect and admiration from all who served with him.

Jim was a devoted husband to his wife of 54 years, Gail. Their marriage is a testament to enduring love and partnership. Through 21 moves around the world, they built a life filled with joy and memorable experiences. For Jim and Gail, home was always where the heart was, and their love remained constant through every change.

Additionally, Jim was a proud and loving father to three sons and a grandfather, affectionately known as “Pops,” to seven grandchildren, each bringing immense pride and joy to his life. His son Michael and his wife Carolyn from Fort Knox, KY, blessed him with a cherished granddaughter, Charlotte. His son Bobby and his wife Amber of Holly Springs, NC, gifted him with three wonderful grandsons: Drew, Judd, and Cooper. His son, Jeff, and his wife Shanann of Crozet, VA, enriched his life with three beautiful grandchildren: Vander, Pepper, and Lincoln. He found great happiness in the moments spent with his sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren, always sharing his wisdom, humor, and love. He is also survived by his two siblings, his sister Cheryl (Bob) Douthat and his brother Steve Lovelace, nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends. Jim’s family was the cornerstone of his life, and he loved them dearly.

Jim Lovelace will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His memory will be cherished, and his spirit and example will continue to inspire.

A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at the Brown Wynne Cary Chapel, on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. with a reception for family and friends to follow. A full military service and burial with honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Army Emergency Relief or Duke Homecare & Hospice in Jim's memory.

AER: https://give.armyemergencyrelief.org/Default.aspx?tsid=16530%20

Duke Homecare & Hospice: https://www.givetodukeathome.org/ways-to-give/direct-giving

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