James Darrel Townsend, (“Papa”) age 92 of Lebanon Tennessee went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on June 16, 2025. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, John W. and Eliza Galyon Townsend, brothers Teddy Ray, R. L. (Frances), and John “J,” sisters Una Faye Walker (Herman) and Vera Jean Lowe, and his daughter Carol Simpson.
Survivors include the love of his life and wife of 66 years, Evelyn Cupp Townsend; daughter Robin Conlan (Jim) of Simpsonville, SC; Carol’s husband, Mitchell Simpson of Franklin, TN; and son Brian (Jo) of Brentwood, TN. Grandchildren: Hailey Thompson (Drew), Madison Simpson, Austin Simpson (Nan), Luke Townsend, Jack Townsend, and Olivia Townsend. Great-grandson: Henry “Hal” Thompson. Sister, Zola Stephenson and brother, Melvin Townsend (Susan); Sister-in-Law, Faye Townsend, and many special nieces and nephews.
Born June 3, 1933, in Kingston, TN, he served in the US Army then became the first in his family to graduate from college (Tennessee Technological University – Engineering). He lived most of his life in Lebanon, TN, retiring from the US Army Corp of Engineers following almost 30 years of service. He loved his family, friends and neighbors, his farm, old cars, and UT sports. He especially loved his church – Fairview Church. He faithfully served as a deacon, Bible teacher and leader, but more importantly, he led his family and encouraged everyone to know and love Jesus as he did.
Services will be held at Noon on Saturday, June 28, at Fairview Church, 1660 Leeville Pike, Lebanon TN with pastors Dr. Jon Akin and Tyler Campbell officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 until the service begins at the church. Private family graveside services will follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Lebanon, TN. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Fairview Church. A special thanks to Deanna Jackson, to the staff of NHC, The Place at the Trace and Caris Hospice who cared so well for Papa.
This obituary was published by Sellars Funeral Home.
This obituary was published by Obituaries provided free for the community.
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