Jimmie Edward Clemmons, 86, of Wilmington, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 24, 2016, while surrounded by family.
Jimmie was born on Oct. 24, 1929 in Wilmington and raised in the close-knit community of Spofford Mill, where his family and extended family lived and were employed. He graduated from New Hanover High School in 1948 and shortly thereafter met the love of his life, Flossie Phelps. They were married on Christmas Eve 1950, and recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.
He volunteered for the U. S. Army from 1950 to 1953, serving in Korea. He achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and received the Bronze Star.
Upon returning to civilian life, he continued to serve his country by joining the North Carolina National Guard. Jimmie worked in management for various companies engaged in shipping and land transportation located along and near the Cape Fear River. He initially retired at the age of 60, but realized that leisure time did not suit him well and returned to gainful and fulfilling employment through his 84th year.
Jimmie was a long time member of Calvary Baptist Church. He was devoted to helping those less fortunate and furthered that ambition by joining The Independent Order of Odd Fellows, serving in many leadership posts including that of Grand Master of North Carolina in 1980. Also during that year, he had the honor of placing a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Flossie Phelps Clemmons; children Gary (Nan) Clemmons of New Bern, Phyllis (Guenter) Stephan of Charlotte and Brian (Lauren) Clemmons of Raleigh; grandchildren, Katie (Josh) Clemmons Beck of Apex, Blake (Brittany) Clemmons of Charlotte and Michael and Amy Clemmons of Raleigh; two great grandchildren, Charlotte and Beau Beck. He also leaves behind life long friends Harry and Gloria Fryer, as well as many other special relatives and friends who he treasured.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 29 at the Chapel at Andrews Mortuary on Market Street. The family will receive friends before the service at 10 a.m. Burial, with military honors, will take place at Oleander Gardens following the service.
Please leave online condolences for the family at Andrews Mortuary.
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