Marvin “Jim Tom” Hedrick was a respected Appalachian distiller and fan favorite on the Discovery Channel’s reality television series, “Moonshiners.”
- Died: September 6, 2023 (Who else died on September 6?)
- Details of death: Died of kidney cancer at the age of 82.
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Jim Tom Hedrick’s legacy
Hailing from Robbinsville, North Carolina, Hedrick was respected in Appalachia as a master of both distilling and storytelling. Before making his name creating spirits, Hedrick worked a variety of jobs, including plumbing, auto repair, and electrical work. For most of his adult life, however, he created moonshine.
Though the term “moonshine” has its roots in illegal liquor distribution, Hedrick created it legally for Sugarland Distilling Company, with bottles bearing his likeness.
In 2012, he joined the Discovery Channel reality television series “Moonshiners,” which spotlights the moonshine industry throughout Appalachia. Hedrick’s skills as a storyteller made him a fan favorite, and he continued to be a regular on the show through 2017. Sugarland Distilling said, “Gaining the stamp of approval from Jim Tom was instrumental in shaping the authenticity of Sugarlands, and we’re forever indebted to his support and friendship.”
Tributes to Jim Tom Hedrick
Full obituary: Variety
