James ‘Jim’ Thomas Tunnell

James “Jim” Thomas Tunnell, age 60, of Oak Ridge, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 10, at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born Nov. 15, 1951, in Knoxville, the son of William Lawrence and Mary Elizabeth Tindell Tunnell.

Jim was the owner and operator of Jim’s Off-Road Center for 36 years. He had served as past president of the Southern 4-Wheel Drive Association, which was active in 13 states.

Jim was a member of Batley Baptist Church. He greatly enjoyed spending time at his father’s farm, Tunnell Springs Farm in Marlow.

He was preceded in death by his mother.

Jim is survived by his father, Judge William Lawrence Tunnell, and his stepmother, Margie S. Tunnell, with whom he was very close and always considered her to be his mother. He is also survived by aunt, Faith Andrews and her husband Pelham of Clinton, his caretaker and friend, Jerry Wilcox, and his long-time friend and employee, Joey Hoakum, all of Oak Ridge; and pastors, Luke Kidwell and Donald Moore.

The family received friends on Friday, Oct. 12, from 5–7 p.m. at Weatherford Mortuary. The funeral followed at 7 p.m. with Rev. Bill Dawson officiating.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, Oct. 13, at 11 a.m. at Anderson Memorial Gardens.

The family asks that any memorials be made to Batley Baptist Church.

An online guest book can be signed at www.weatherfordmortuary.com.