James Robert “Bobby” Champion, 88, of Lone Oak, Ky and formerly of Livingston County passed away at 4:55 a.m. Thursday, June 22, 2017 at his home. James was a long time member of Lone Oak First Baptist Church. He was a 1947 graduate of Livingston County High School. James served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He served in the “Old Guard” whose primary purpose was to guard the President and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. He was stationed in Washington D.C.
His hobbies included woodworking, fishing and trips with church groups. He was an avid Kentucky Basketball fan and enjoyed attending the SEC Tournaments as well as a St. Louis Cardinal Baseball fan. He retired from Union Carbide after 37 years of service. James along with fellow workers was instrumental for six months in construction of the capsule that sent a monkey into space.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Clara McGrew Champion; two daughters, Pam (Bill) Just of Florence, SC, Kim (Doug) Pitts of Lone Oak, KY; one son, Jimmy (Patti) Champion of Walls, MS; three grandchildren, Amy Just (Dustin) Rouse, Taylor Champion, Carlee Dusin; special great-granddaughter, Austyn Claire Rouse; several nieces and nephews; special care-giver, Carol Walker and the Men’s Sunday School Class of Lone Oak First Baptist Church, David Keele, Teacher.
Preceding in death were parents, Owen Champion & Maybelle Ramage Champion; three sisters, Evelyn Thompson, Dorris McGuire and Patsy Jones; two brothers Bernie Champion and Charles E. Champion; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 26, 2017 at Lone Oak First Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Williams, Dr. Dan Summerlin and Rev. Jamie Coomer officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens with military honors. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 26, 2017 beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the Lone Oak First Baptist Church until service time of 1:00 p.m.
Expression of sympathy may be made to Lone Oak First Baptist Church, 3601 Lone Oak Road, Paducah, KY 42001 or to the American Heart Association , 240 Whittington Parkway, Louisville, KY 42022.
Arrangements made by Lone Oak Chapel Milner & Orr Funeral Home.
You may light a candle or leave a message of sympathy at www.milnerandorr.com
