James T. “J-Bird” Washam-age 81 of Luttrell went to be with our Lord Jesus Thursday, December 24, 2020 at his home. He was a member of The Lighthouse, Luttrell. He was a former Union County Commissioner, Luttrell Volunteer Fireman, Union County Reserve Deputy Sheriff. He was employed for over 30 years at the Luttrell Mine under all five owners. He was the son of the late Lawrence Otis and Opal Booker Washam; also preceded in death by brother, Roger O. Washam; sister, Lana Deanna Beeler.

Survivors: wife, Gail Whitehead Washam; son, Brian (Serena) Washam; step-daughters, Denise (Eric) Helms; Melissa Whitehead; step-son, David Whitehead. He will be missed by his sisters, Glenda (Ed) Treece, Kay (David) Coppock, Pam (Richard) Davis, Connie (Darrell) DeVault; brother, Gary (Janice) Washam; sister-in-law, Melissa Washam; grandchildren, Eli and Kylie Helms, Acelyn and Bryson Washam, Megan Dyer, Kari Rodgers, Nicholas Day, Brittany Day; Five great-grandchildren. He will be missed by all his buddies from the Whittling Shack, co-workers from the mine in Luttrell; special friends, Clyde (Lucy) Simms, Jason (Tonya) Dyer. Several nieces and nephews along with a host of friends.

A call of convenience will be held 10 am till 5 pm Friday, January 1, 2021 at the funeral home. Graveside service 10 a.m. Saturday, January 2, 2021, Washam-Dukes Cemetery, Luttrell with Rev. Jason Dyer officiating. Pallbearers: Eric Helms, Blake Washam, Clyde Simms, Gary Washam. Honorary Pallbearers: David Coppock, Darrell DeVault, Chris Washam, Glen Beeler. Arrangements by Cooke-Campbell Mortuary, Maynardville.