James Everett Malone

Upon graduation from Red Bank High School in 1960, he joined the U.S. Navy where he served for two years. After returning to Chattanooga, he started a 16 year tenure at Erlanger Hospital where he became the Plant Operations Director. In 1984, he founded Malone Heat & Air as the successful President & CEO for 35 years. He enjoyed extensive travel in the U.S. as well as abroad, scuba diving and his favorite past time was driving his many race cars. He loved racing (1992-2012) at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Autobahn Country Club, Daytona International Speedway, GingerMan Raceway, Hutchinson Island Race Track, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Robeling Road Raceway, Sebring International Raceway and Watkins Glen International.

He was a member of Historic Sportscar Racing, Sportscar Club of America, Sportscar Vintage Racing Association and attended GraceWorks Church.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Brigette (Brian) Thurman; son, Jimmy (Teresa) Malone, grandchildren, Caroline Thurman, Collin Thurman, Jenna Malone and Matthew Malone; sister, Donna McCown; niece, Melissa (Chris) Curfman and their children, Zachary, Brianna and Gabrielle. He was preceded in death by his sister, Kay Fortune.

The family expresses our sincere gratitude to the nurses at Hospice of Chattanooga and BrightStar Care of Chattanooga caregivers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Chattanooga, Junior Achievement of Chattanooga and GraceWorks Church.

Due to CDC guidelines, a private family service will be held, 3PM Tuesday, January 26, 2021, at the funeral home with Pastor Bill Owens officiating. Pallbearers are Larry Cope, Peter Duffy, Brad Elmore, Matthew Malone, Keith Nelson, and Collin Thurman.

The family will receive friends Monday, January 25, from 4-8 PM at the funeral home.

Arrangements are by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist - North Chapel, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.