James “Jim” Atherton, 74, of Bessemer, Alabama, passed away suddenly on January 23, 2025, after sustaining fatal injuries in a fall.
Jim was a man of few words and many interests. He was not one to just sit, had to be always busy doing something, but what he enjoyed much was working on his 4-acres feeding deer that roamed his property and watching birds that frequented his bird feeders. Even though he would be considered an experienced world traveler having traveled throughout Europe, the Middle East, and other foreign countries, his favorite vacations were out West where he could experience the unique beauty of God’s creation. He enjoyed summit hiking with family, climbing to the top of lighthouses to see the panoramic views, and playing with his grandchildren. After moving to Alabama, he added thrifting to find “good deals” to his many hobbies.
He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather (Papa) who considered it his life’s calling to serve others. It was not unusual to find him helping his children work on their homes, puttering around his wooded homestead, gardening with friends who could no longer lift heavy loads, or doing any other task for anyone who needed him.
Jim was devoted to his grandchildren, kicking the soccer ball around with his grandson, Sam; shooting rifles with his grandson, Luke; and playing Sponge Bob Yahtzee and building Legos with his granddaughter, Grace (Sacred Selections baby #125)
Above all, Jim loved his Lord and Savior having served as an elder at the Antioch church of Christ in Thonotosassa, Fl., and most recently as a member of the church of Christ in Helena, Alabama. He was a humble, kind, and patient man who showed the fruit of the Spirit in his daily walk. His children are forever grateful for the example he set for them in his work ethic and, more important, in his devotion to the Lord.
Because of the love he had for his granddaughter, Grace, Jim was a strong supporter of the work Sacred Selections does in helping Christian families adopt children. He would often remark how he’d hate to think what might have become of Grace if she had not been adopted by Dan and Emily Atherton, his son and daughter-in-law. His family knows he would appreciate any donations made to help other children find homes where they will learn of the Lord and His teachings.
Thank you for your support,
You can donate in Mr. Atherton’s memory here.