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James Kenneth Wolverton

1940 - 2025

James Kenneth Wolverton obituary, 1940-2025, Bartlett, TN

BORN

1940

DIED

2025

James Wolverton Obituary

James Kenneth "Ken" Wolverton, of Bartlett, Tennessee, passed away on December 20, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him. He was born on November 14, 1940, in Bethel Springs, Tennessee. On March 20, 1974, he married his wife, Debbie. Their marriage of more than 50 years was grounded in commitment, love, and steadfast support through every season of life. Together, they built a home and a life filled with lasting memories. Ken retired from Federal Express after 30 years of dedicated service. He had a lifelong love of camping, fishing, and history, but nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his family. Whether sharing stories, making memories outdoors, or simply being together, family was always at the center of Ken's life.

Ken was a devoted husband, a beloved father and grandfather, and a loyal friend. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Debbie Wolverton; his children, Austin Glenn Wolverton (Louisa), Johnna Paige Elmore (Luke), and Shelley Scholl (Dave); his grandchildren, Macy, Nate, Gavin, Aiden, Sydney, Grant, William and Sam; and his great-grandchildren, Miley and Atticus. He is also survived by his sister, Betty Berry; his brother, Jerry Wolverton; and several nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, and sisters-in-law who loved him dearly.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Bessie McCommon; his brother, Johnny Wolverton; his nephew and godson, Crain Hubbard; and his nephew, Joey Pope.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, from 10:00 am to 12:00 p.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church in the Chapel (little Church) with a small service starting at ~11:45 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ken's memory to the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy https://tnstateparksconservancy.org/.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Daily Memphian on Jan. 5, 2026.

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Memorial Events
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Jan

10

Visitation

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

St Ann Catholic Church Chapel

6529 Stage Rd, Bartlett, TN 38134

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