James Fontenot

James “Jim” Fontenot, 91, of Johnson City, Tennessee, passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at his home.

Jim was born October 14, 1933, in Raywood, Texas to the late Austin and Amy Fontenot. He married the love of his life, Lessie St. Andre, on May 17, 1958, in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Jim joined the United States Air Force where he retired after 20 years of service. After his military career, he worked as a mechanic and manager in Homestead, Florida. In 2009, Jim and Lessie moved to Johnson City. Jim enjoyed gardening, he had an extensive vegetable garden, and he liked to work on carpentry projects and building things. He was a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan and he loved spending time with his great-grandchildren, Tatiana and Leilani. 

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a son, Kenneth Fontenot. 

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Lessie; son, Darrell (Debbie) Fontenot and Larry (Lee) Fontenot; grandchildren, Zachary Fontenot, Christopher Fontenot, Marcelino Busto, Lauren (Blake) Hitchcock, Andrew Profilet, Matthew Fontenot, and Jonathan Fontenot; great-grandchildren, Tatiana Fontenot, Leilani Fontenot, Ruby Hitchcock, and Charlotte Hitchcock; and sister, Alida Fontenot. 

There will be a committal service at 3:00 pm on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at Mountain Home National Cemetery – Historic section. Those attending are asked to please meet at the cemetery. 

Memories and condolences may be shared via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Fontenot family. (423) 282-1521