Jimmy C. Gantt

Jimmy C. Gantt, 80, of Stanley, NC, passed away peacefully at his home on December 9th, 2024, surrounded by his family. 

Son of the late Ruby Murrell Brown, Jim was born on July 18th, 1944, in Knoxville, TN (God’s Country). In his youth, he excelled in athletics, playing football and basketball during his high school career, even competing against “Pistol Pete” Maravich. He graduated from Stanley High School and received a basketball scholarship offer from Clemson (which he declined, presumably on the grounds that it was the wrong shade of orange). He went on to have a long and fruitful career as a railroad conductor with Norfolk Southern. 

Jim was known for his exceptional generosity, his sharp wit, and his love for his family and the University of Tennessee athletics, which inspired several of his children and grandchildren to attend UT, ensuring a continued legacy of love for the Vols for generations to come. He enjoyed caring for his pets, spending time at his lake house in eastern Tennessee, and cheering on the Vols alongside his entire family. 

Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Ruby (“Mother”), his grandmother, Georgia J. Murrell (“Momma”), and his grandfather, John P. Murrell. 

He is survived by his wife, Patsy Armstrong Gantt, his children, Derrick Gantt (Belinda), Rich Gantt (Kathy), Brian Gantt (Amy), Connie Trull (Shane), and his grandchildren, Broc Gantt, Laura Trull, Lexi Trull, Kellston Gantt, Drake Trull, Collin Gantt, and Brookelyn Gantt.

A receiving of friends will be held on Friday, December 13th, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Woodlawn Funeral Home to honor Jim’s life. The family requests that attendees wear their best UT orange. Go Vols!

J. C. Gantt - PC05, marking off.

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