James Loving Pullen, 89, of Okatie, S.C., and formerly Rockbridge Baths, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at home surrounded by family.
He was born on Sept. 30, 1933, in Harrisonburg, a son of Lynwood Mays Pullen and Louise Gladys Tyree Pullen Johenning and big brother to Patricia (Patty) Pullen Kauffman. He joins them in eternal life.
Jim married his high school sweetheart Jessie Ann Ordel on Aug. 27, 1955, in the First Methodist Church in Lexington. He is also survived by his son James Robert (Bob) Pullen and wife Renee; his daughter Sandra (Sannie) Pullen Duncan and husband Bruce; his granddaughter Casey Pullen Wills and husband Peter; granddaughter Chelsey Pullen Carroll and husband CW; and three great-grandchildren, Jackson Wills, Lachlan Wills and Scarlett Carroll.
Jim, as he was known by his friends, graduated from Lexington High School in 1952. He graduated from Washington and Lee University with a bachelor of arts degree in journalism. He began working part-time at the age of 10 through his graduation from college at the Rockbridge County News (now The News-Gazette). His first formal position was as a reporter/photographer with the Charleston Evening Post in Charleston, S.C.
He began his career in government service in the United States Army. He was appointed as a second lieutenant in the Army Reserves and later transferred to the Navel Reserves.
His journey in government service continued over the next 21 years, retiring in 1983. Jim served as special agent in charge in criminal and counter intelligence with NIS, US customs and DEA. Upon retirement he continued his civil service as a government contractor for multiple government agencies, including the FBI conducting criminal background investigations.
In Rockbridge Baths, for the next 20 years Jim and Jessie operated J&J Christmas Tree Farm. Jim was an avid woodworker and loved to travel with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a long term member of the Rockbridge Baths Ruritan Club.
Jim and Jessie’s final stop on their travels was Okatie, S.C., living near his daughter and son in law. Jim was patriotic and loved his country. He was a true gentleman, loved fiercely by his family and respected by friends. He will be missed but always remembered.
Memorial contributions in memory of Jim Pullen can be made to a charity of your choice. A memorial service is being planned for September in Virginia. Sauls Funeral Home in Bluffton, S.C., is entrusted with his final care.
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