Columbia - Devoted grandmother, mother, and wife, Jimmie Louis Ray Christian died August 11, 2012 of a rare form of lymphoma. She was surrounded by family, who cared for her in her home the last weeks of her illness. She was 72.
Born in Knoxville, TN, on November 9, 1939, Jimmie was the youngest child of the late Pauline and Lee Ray. She graduated from South High School in Knoxville and attended the University of Tennessee. A devoted traveler, she toured the country as a Delta flight attendant in the 1960s before marrying Jerry Christian, her husband of 47 years. Jimmie and Jerry returned to Columbia, SC, in 2001 to enjoy their retirement.
Jimmie developed a reputation with family and friends for her loving nature, her story-telling, and her boundless energy. A connoisseur of practical jokes, she concocted many elaborate schemes and her laugh tickled the souls of all she met.
Jimmie is survived by her husband James Gerald Christian Sr. (Jerry); her two children: Shelley Christian Olds and James Gerald Christian Jr. (Jim); and 4 grandchildren: Christian Olds, David Olds, Jim Christian, and Mary Christian. She was also mother to her in-laws Tracy Cox and Ellen Turner Christian and loving sister to Barbara Bales of Knoxville, TN and Carolyn Watson of Atlanta, GA.
In keeping with her generous spirit, Jimmie is donating her body to science for further research on lymphoma. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, August 18, 2012 at Spring Valley Presbyterian Church. Jimmie wished for colorful attire for the occasion, which she defines as a celebration of life.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to Palmetto Health Hospice of Columbia. Memorials may be made to Palmetto Health Hospice of Columbia, PO Box 7275, Columbia, SC 29202.
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