James Archie Hedgpeth

Evans, GA – James Archie Hedgpeth came into this world on September 9, 1917. He was born in Rowland, NC, the son of Archibald B. and Ophelia Lytch Hedgpeth. Most of his adult life he lived in Durham, NC, Marion, OH, N. Myrtle Beach, SC, and, for the past 14 years, in Augusta, GA. Jim passed away Monday, the 30th of November, 2009 at Brandon Wilde in Augusta.

Jim entered Mars Hill College in 1934, moving to and graduating from North Carolina State University with a B.S. Degree in Ceramic Engineering in 1939. He was a member of the American Ceramic Society, the National Institute of Ceramic Engineers, and the Engineering and Research Division of the Brick Institute of America. Jim worked in the brick industry for 35 years, working for Carolina Brick Company, Borden Brick and Tile Co., Marion Brick Corporation, and was a board member of Ibstock-Johnson, Ltd.

Jim entered the Army Air Corps in February, 1941, serving as one of the first ten replacement fighter pilots in the Philippines after WWII broke out on December 7, 1941. He spent 13 months in the Pacific and 22 months in the European Theater, leaving the Air Force and Reserves with a total of 22 ½ years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel, with six bronze stars and numerous service and campaign medals/awards.

Jim was a member of Grace Baptist Church in Durham, NC, then Trinity Baptist Church in Marion, OH, serving on its Board of Deacons and Trustees. After retiring to North Myrtle Beach, SC, he was a member of Lakeside Baptist Church, serving on its Board of Deacons, Finance Committee, Baptismal Committee, and was a member of the choir. After moving to Augusta in 1995, he was also a member of First Baptist Church of Augusta until his death.

His first priority, and most treasured asset, was his family and the memories they created together. Jim will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his devoted wife of 66 years, Frances Johnson Hedgpeth; daughters, Fran (Charlie) Isaly of Cincinnati, OH, and Lynda (Fred) Lott of Cumming, GA; a son, James (Cristy) Hedgpeth, Jr. of Omaha, NE; grandchildren, Britt (Karen) Isaly of Chicago, IL, Stacie (Eric) Schulze of Alpharetta, GA, Russell (Elizabeth) Isaly of Bellingham, WA, Justin (Amy) Lott of Raleigh, NC, Ryan (Jennifer) Lott of New York City, Alexandra Hedgpeth and Katherine Hedgpeth of Omaha, NE; and six beloved great-grandchildren; and by numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings Thelma Morton, Lytch Hedgpeth, and Naomi Ruediger.

He was known as Jim to most, James to his siblings. Mr. Hedgpeth or Sir to many, Daddy or Dad to his children, Papa or other endearing nicknames from his grand-and great grandchildren, and Jim to his love and closest friend- Frances. So graciously gifted from his Lord, Jim will be known for the whimsically impish glimmer in his eyes, and wonderful wit that brought so many smiles and laughter to all who knew him. Jim will always be remembered for his steadfast and fulfilling commitment to his family and friends. Jim was a model of respect, equality, and fairness, recognizing always the best in others. He died as his lived, with dignity, grace and humility. Thankfully now he is at peace, and we are all better people for having loved him.

The Hedgpeth family expresses its deepest gratitude for the professional and loving care provided to Mr. Hedgpeth by the staff at Brandon Wilde.
A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at Brandon Wilde for family and close friends. A private family interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, for those who so desire, donations in memory of Jim may be made to the American Kidney Fund, Trinity Hospice of Augusta, or to any other charity of your choice.