Funeral mass, with military honors, for 93-year-old James “Jimmy” Ethridge, of Cadiz, will be at St. Stephen Catholic Church 10 AM Tuesday.
Interment will follow at 2 PM in the Calvary Cemetery on 2501 Old Villa Ridge Road, in Villa Ridge, Illinois.
Visitation will be from 4-6 PM Monday at Goodwin Funeral Home, and again from 9 AM until mass.
Survivors include:
His children, Cynthia Kamaski (Robert), James Edward Ethridge, Jr., Jayme Ethridge Junker, John Ethridge (Denyse), Stefanie Scheubert (Clint), and adopted daughter, Marsha Pater (Bill);
His grandchildren, James Ethridge, III, Kimberly McCord, Shannon, Matthew, Jordan, and Trisha Junker, and Sarah Ethridge;
His great-grandchildren, Breanna and Ellie Beberg, Sienna Junker, Izzy, Marley, and Gavin McCord;
And very special friends, Rita Hammock and Charlene Thomason.
Father Gregory Trawick is officiating.
He died Thursday, November 21, 2024, at his home.
He was born September 10, 1931, in St. Louis, Missouri, to late Hiram & Catherine Bennett Ethridge.
He came from humble beginnings. Throughout his life he was dedicated to serving and honoring his country, as well as providing a better life for himself and his family. He joined the United States Army at the tender age of 15 after boldly falsifying his birth certificate to serve his nation during its time of need. His military career began in the final moments of World War II in August 1945 and extended into the Korean War. His service was marked by honor and bravery, making him one of the last surviving members of the greatest generation.
Following his military service, Jimmy transitioned to a successful career in the automotive industry, beginning in sales. At the impressive age of 27, he became the youngest person in the United States to be awarded a Chrysler Dodge franchise, establishing Ethridge Motors. His business model led to further success when he was awarded a GMC Cadillac Pontiac dealership. Jimmy also owned a Goodyear Tire Center, as well as Ethridge Leasing.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jimmy was honored as a Kentucky Colonel and dedicated his time and energy as a life member of the VFW and the American Legion. He was also a proud 4th Degree Knight of Columbus. He was a devoted member of St. Stephen Catholic Church, where he forged many lasting friendships.
An avid outdoorsman, Jimmy loved the ocean, fishing, beach life, golfing, nature, and hunting. He was fondly known as a “deer whisperer.” He was a proud Grandpa and deeply loved his family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by the love of his life and soulmate, Phyllis Stull; his only sister and best friend, Mary Francis Knight; his daughter, Cheryl Cunningham; a beloved grandson, Zachary Thomas; and a great-grandson, Liam McCord.
Memorial contributions can be made to Pennyroyal Hospice, 220 Burley Ave., Hopkinsville, KY 42240.
