James Lavender

James A. Lavender, 72, of Dover, TN. formerly of Galesburg, IL, passed away Wednesday, August 20, 2014 at his home. Born in Galesburg, IL. July 15, 1942 to Joseph & Josephine Lovitt Lavender.

He married Connie Curtis November 29, 1958 and they had four children. He later married Mary Jo Allen on February 16, 1968 and they had twin daughters.
He served his country in the United States Army and was a Vietnam Veteran. He retired from Briggs Manufacturing in Abingdon, IL. as a truck driver. He volunteered at Paris Landing Golf Course in Buchanan, TN. He was avid golfer, loved baseball and a huge Chicago White Sox and Bears fan. He enjoyed watching classic westerns, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. His larger than life sense of humor will be greatly missed by those who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers, Wilbur and Eldon Lavender and 1 sister, Betty Lavender.

He is survived by his children, Rhonda Wynkoop, Tonya (Ron) Swing, Tamra (Darrin) Frye, Jim (Lisa) Lavender, Diane (George) Fitchpatrick, Dawn (David) Ruggles; brothers, Don (Audrey) Lavender, Dean Lavender; sister, Anna Mae Purlee; grandchildren; Carissa (Shane) Hart, Ashley (Mike) Kilpatrick, Cassie (Matt) Gilliland, Lauren Wynkoop, Casey Swing, Bradley Swing, Nick (Tiffany) Frey, Shelbi Frye, Ryan Frye, Nathan Lavender, Caleb Lavender, Danielle Fitchpatrick, Allison Fitchpatrick, Courtney Ruggles, Erin Ruggles; 9 great-grandchildren.
The family will host a Celebration of Life, August 30, 2014 . The family will receive friends beginning at 5pm - 6:30pm with a service to follow. Paris Landing State Park Hotel, Ellington Room, 400 Lodge Road, Buchanan, TN 38222.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Jude's 24-hour Bike Ride with memorial made payable to Team Cyclepaths.

Online condolences may be made at www.sykesfuneralhome.com .