James Andrew Wilhite, 63, of Sparta, passed away Aug. 21, 2023, at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital, in Murfreesboro.
He was born on Nov. 23, 1959, in Smithville.
James will be remembered by his infectious smile, comical personality, and his kind spirit. These attributes extended to his professional life as a medical laboratory manager at White County Community Hospital where he was known for his compassion toward patients and his entertaining practical jokes.
In his youth, James enjoyed fishing on Sunday afternoons at the Calfkiller River with his best friend, James. He spent the winter seasons hunting and making lifelong memories with his Papa, Andy Howell.
James was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Howell (Hosea) Broyles.
Surviving family include his father, Raymond “Worm” (Bobby E.) Wilhite; brother, Nile (Diana) Broyles; sisters, Amy (Neil) Givens, Emy Wilhite; aunt, Carol W. Kennerly; uncles, Roger (Linda Sue) Howell, David Howell; one niece; numerous nephews; one great-niece; one great-nephew; his lifelong best friend, James Nash; and loving caregivers, Charlie and Jennifer Meadows, L.D. and Melanie Marshall, and Patty Cusick.
A Celebration of Life was 2:30 p.m., Aug. 27, 2023, at Oak Lawn Funeral Home, with burial in Highland Cemetery. James Nash and Jerry Nash officiated.
Pallbearers were David Howell, Charlie Meadows, L.D. Marshall, Neil Givens, Dawson Givens, Aaron Darty, Cole Smith, and Jonah Duke.
Honorary pallbearer was James Nash.
Oak Lawn Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
