Jim Rowntree

Jim Rowntree, age 72, of Hahira, passed away suddenly at his home on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Born in Hahira to the late James Turner Rowntree, Sr. and Faye Iris June Byrd Rowntree, and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, Jim graduated from Brookhaven High School and began his career as a skilled carpenter. It was in Brookhaven where he met the love of his life, Jody Cain. They married on February 24, 1973, in Brookhaven, solidifying a partnership that would last over five decades.

Shortly after marriage, Jim returned to the Valdosta area to be closer to family and began a long and dedicated career at Gold Kist. Starting in maintenance in the mid-1970s, Jim’s hard work and leadership culminated in his role as mill manager, a position he held proudly until his retirement in 2015 after 40 years of service.

Jim was a man who cherished the outdoors and the company of his loved ones. He found great joy in fishing, hunting, and entertaining family and friends, especially at Spring Warrior Creek in Florida. A devoted grandfather and sports enthusiast, Jim was always enthusiastic about his grandsons’ baseball games and was a passionate supporter of the Atlanta Braves.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Jody Cain Rowntree; son Jamie Rowntree; daughters Jana Hancock (Brian) and Jessie Gant (Brian); grandsons Westin and Carter Hancock; and step-grandson Jacob Gant, all of Hahira. Jim will also be fondly remembered by his siblings Jayne Carpin (David) of Cumming, GA, Joan Peacock of Winder, GA, and Jon Rowntree (Sara) of Ray City, GA, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 2, 2025, in the chapel of Martin McLane Funeral Home. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 1:00 to 2:00 PM prior to the service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.mclanefuneralservices.com.

Jim’s legacy of love, hard work, and devotion to family will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.