Ernest James Abshire

Ernest "Jimmy" James Abshire, Jr., 82, of Roanoke, was called home the morning of Monday, December 8, 2014. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest James, Sr. and Lois Hontz Abshire; grandparents, Henry and Lila Hontz and James O. and Blanche Abshire; brother, Roland Vance Abshire; sister, Blanche A. Hammond; great-nephew, Todd Abshire; 4 uncles; 13 aunts; and many cousins. He graduated from Troutville High School in 1951 where he played his favorite sport, basketball and attended Ferrum Jr. College from 1952-1954. He enjoyed working with cattle on the Botetourt farm, fishing and mechanics. Jimmy worked numerous jobs until his health declined. He is survived by his brother and sisters, Norman Talbot Abshire and wife, Wanda; Nadine A. Scaggs and husband, Curtis; Barbara A. Markham and husband, Floyd; and Shirley A. Dulaney and husband, William; sister-in-law, Betty G. Abshire; brother-in-law, George L. Hammond; nephews, Talbot Abshire, Wayne Scaggs, Jason Markham, Paul Dulaney, Norm Abshire, and Wallace Abshire; nieces, Georgia Hammond, Martha Light, Diane Saunders, Debra Scaggs, Susan Chulavatr, Kathy Tedder, Jennifer Hulvey, Cynthia Flynn, and Cindy Baily; aunt, Maxine Abshire; and numerous cousins. Special thanks to Lisa Guilliam at Hollins Manor, Catawba Hospital Staff, and the Friendship Nursing Home Staff for their tender and loving care. Funeral services will be held 2pm Wednesday, December 10, 2014 at the Buchanan Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home with the Rev. J.R. Graybill officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice. Arrangements by Botetourt Funeral Home, 540-254-3000.