James DeBaby

James "Jimbo" DeBaby passed peacefully in his sleep Sunday morning. Preceded in death by his parents Stratis and Athena DeBaby and brothers Harry, Nick, and Christopher. He is survived by sons and daughters in law George and Dawn of Maryville, Charles and Carolyn of Oklahoma City, and Christopher of Palm Beach, sister in law Jean, grandchildren Michelle and Michael Barone, Cristy and David Blanding, Charlie DeBaby, Greg DeBaby, Jamey and Matt Hearon, Evelyn and Zac Housel, Melissa and Steve Basinger, and Cody DeBaby as well as 9 great grandchildren and his many nieces and nephews. Jim was married to the love of his life Stella for 70 years. During that time, he served in the US Navy as a bombardier on the TBF torpedo bomber and the SPD dive bomber on the aircraft carrier Belleau Wood. After surviving the loss of his entire aircraft squadron, he served in radio intelligence on the Japanese invested island of Munda. He was later transferred to the United States where he served as a radio intelligence instructor. He left the Navy as a decorated veteran and continued to serve in the Navy Reserve. He played semi pro baseball and professional level fast pitch softball for many years. He continued his love of baseball as a coach and mentor to many young men. Jim was an active member of the Greek Orthodox Church communities serving as the AHEPA President. In 1986, he and Stella retired to Blue Ridge, Georgia and in 2010 moved to Maryville to be closer to family. Jim lived his final days making everybody laugh and enjoying his family. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer's Tennessee or the Boys and Girls Clubs of Blount County. Family will receive friends Thursday, November 13, 2014 from 4:30-6:30 with a Greek Orthodox Prayer Service at 6:30. A private burial will be at the Veterans Cemetery. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of James DeBaby please visit our Sympathy Store.