James Vernon “Jim” Beattie, a life-long resident of Starkville, MS, passed unexpectedly on September 13, 2024. He was 64 years old. Jim was born in Starkville on May 3, 1960, to Henry A. Beattie Jr. and Mary Ruth Beattie (Johnson). Jim was preceded in death by his parents.
The youngest of four siblings, Jim is survived by his brother, Henry A. Beattie III (Martha) of Scottsdale, AZ; sister, Kathie Swedenburg (Scott) of Starkville, MS; sister, Carol Shead (Russell) of Fort Worth, TX; and cousins, Mrs. Beattie Williams and Dr. Walt Starr (Lee Ann).
Jim will be remembered by his family and friends as kind and compassionate, always happy to help in any circumstances, with a smile on his face and a joyful spirit. His early life included Boy Scouting, hunting, and a love of cars. A graduate of Starkville Academy, Jim served in the Army National Guard and was an active member of First Baptist Church, Starkville, MS.
Jim’s skills as an Auto Body Technician earned him the moniker “Magic Fingers.” An avid do-it-yourselfer, he could tackle most any project with confidence. Jim also enjoyed travels with his auto club. Never far away from Starkville, Jim chose to move to Sturgis in 2015, where he happily lived until his passing.
A memorial service will be held Thursday morning, September 19, at Welch Funeral Home, 201 West Lampkin St., Starkville, MS 39759. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00. Rev. Clifton Curtis will be officiating.
Memorials may be made to the Children’s Building Fund, First Baptist Church, 106 East Lampkin St., Starkville, MS 39759, or to a charity of your choice.
