James "Jim" Lee Rupard

James “Jim” Lee Rupard, age 80 of Hiddenite, passed away Sunday, February 11, 2024, at Valley Nursing Center after courageously battling cancer for almost three years. He was born Tuesday, February 23, 1943, in Rowan County to the late General Lee and Grace Jarvis Rupard. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army. During his working career he worked as a lineman for Energy United. After he retired, he owned his own tree topping company. Jim was a faithful member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and was very involved with The Good News Club. Jim would collect and recycle cans, and he would donate the money to The Good News Club. He had a passion for working with and being a sponsor for AA. Jim has spent the last 45 years earning his AA chips. He enjoyed picking the guitar, woodworking, but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Ezekiel and Charles Rupard, sisters, Irene Padgette, Dorothy Baity, and Linda Call.

Those left to cherish the memories of Jim include his wife of 42 years, Norma B. Rupard of the home, two daughters, Charmon Gwaltney of Union Grove, Chasta Shumaker (Gene) of Hiddenite, one stepson, Mike Head (Kelly) of Taylorsville, two grandsons, Solomon and Isaac Shumaker, one granddaughter, Taylor Lawter, one step-grandson, Nathan Head, one step-granddaughter, Mikhayla Sipe, one step-great-grandson, Samuel Sipe, one sister, Opal Rupard of Union Grove, and a number of nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held Friday, February 16, 2024, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. The funeral service will be Friday, February 16, 2024, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church at 12:00 pm. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Rev. Gene Shumaker and Rev. Brian Douthit will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Good News Club, 1239 Radio Road, Statesville, NC 28625 or Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 848 Pisgah Church Road, Stony Point, NC 28678

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com