James “Jimmy” Smith Favors was born on Father’s Days, June 19, 1949 to the late James B. Favors and Katherine Smith Favors in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He peacefully transitioned on September 9, 2020 at Froedtert Hospital, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was educated in the Hamilton County Public School System and graduated from Central High School, Chattanooga, Tennessee. James, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, employment has been with Lupton City Dixie Yarn, Combustion Engineering, Norfolk Southern Railway, and has held the position of RVP in Primerica Financial Services.

Jimmy loved his family and friends. He enjoyed watching football, NASCAR, NHRA and frequented drag strips. He admired clean, fast cars, and Jimmy’s skills in auto mechanics enabled him not only to build the motors but also race his cars.

At an early age he accepted Christ and was baptized in Rock Island Baptist Church. As an adult, James increased his knowledge and strengthen his faith by submitting to studies in the Assemblies of Yahweh.

Cherished memories are with his loving, devoted wife, Lieut. Col. Karen Morrison Favors. Sons, Jabari D. (Melvina), Danya J. (Veda) and their mother, Damita Drew Favors. Five grandsons, three granddaughters. Sisters, Mildred Lynnette Harvey and Minister Nancy E. Fitzpatrick. Four nephews and five nieces. Grand, great-grand, and great-great-grand nephews and nieces. Two brothers-in-law and two-sisters-in-law. Cousins and life-long friends.

Public viewing will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2020 from 9:00 am-1:30 pm. Funeral services will be held privately. A Graveside Celebration will be held Wednesday, September 23, 2020 at 11:00 am at Chattanooga National Cemetery. Arrangements by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, 423-622-9995.