Jehue Russell “J.R.” Earp, Jr., 96, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on Saturday, March 23, 2024, surrounded by family, after a brief illness.
Russell was born September 3, 1928, in Chattanooga. He graduated from Central High School, Class of 1947, and was known as an outstanding boxer. He went on to win many titles in Chattanooga and the southeast regional area. He then enlisted in the Marines, proudly serving his country; upon discharge he went to work with his father at Dixie Stamping Incorporated. Later in life he worked and then retired from Nations Bank. He was a Shriner, Mason, and remained very involved with the organizations throughout the years. He never missed an opportunity to go out to eat; he loved bowling, playing golf, and spending time with family. A life well lived!
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Thompson Earp, and second wife, Hilda Blanche Earp; his parents, Jehue and Alma Earp Sr.; brother, Wyatt Earp; and sisters, Nancy Thompson, Christell Brown, and Virginia Hudgins.
Survivors include his son, Russ (Kathy) Earp; two grandchildren, Kirby (Logan) Perkins and Alec Earp; his sweet great-grandson Griffin Perkins; and some very special nieces, nephews, and friends.
A memorial service to celebrate Russell’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1, at the Forest Hills Cemetery pavilion, 4016 Tennessee Ave., Chattanooga, Tn. 37409.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that all donations be made to Frawley Road Baptist Church, 510 Frawley Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37412, where Russell was a longtime member.