Imogene James Whitehead

Imogene “Jean” James Whitehead, age 85, of Friendsville passed peacefully into Heaven on December 27, 2015. Born in Jefferson City and a graduate of Alcoa High School, she was of the Baptist faith and loved music, laughter, dancing, travel and socializing with friends. For many years she was a mainstay at local music venues, never fully satisfying her thirst for a good tune. Her smile, zest for life, and generosity will be missed. Jean is survived by son Mike Whitehead and daughter in-law Janice Wade-Whitehead, sister Faye (Bob) Holbert, and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by husband of 40 years B.C. Whitehead, parents Frank and Lillie James; Brothers, Olen (Wendell) James, Lloyd (Gretchen) James, Ralph (Lois) James, Marvin James and sister Frances (Jack) Coffey. The Whitehead family would like to acknowledge special friends and family whose love and compassion sustained and lifted Jean’s spirits when she needed it most. True love and friendships endure and continue to flourish no matter the circumstances. Special thanks to Williamsburg Villas and the exceptional Villa 2 staff and friends who provided the support Jean needed as her path in life was altered by Alzheimer’s disease. The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm till 7:00pm on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at Smith Funeral & Cremation with funeral service to follow at 7:00 pm. Family and friends will assemble 12:00 noon for the interment at Sherwood Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Tennessee, 5801 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919 www.alzTennessee.org. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, 865-983-1000. www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Imogene James Whitehead please visit our Sympathy Store.