James Thomas McCormick, Sr.

Sgt. James "Clint" Thomas McCormick, Sr., age 82, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, in Crossville, Tennessee having been surrounded by his loving daughter, son-in-law and only grandson for an extended period prior to his passing. Born on August 29, 1942, in Pleasantville (now part of Cookeville), Tennessee, of Scotch/Irish descent and proud of it, he lived a life marked by devotion-to his country, his family, and his faith.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Sgt. McCormick served honorably as a Sergeant/E5. Though he rarely spoke of his time in uniform, his pride in service was unmistakable-especially when it came to his only son and all three of his grandchildren who followed in his footsteps by volunteering for the U.S. Armed Forces. He held particular pride in his grandson who carried on his legacy by serving in the US Navy in the same role with helicopters that he once held in the Us Army.

James was a man of quiet strength and deep conviction. He was very close to God and spoke to Him daily, drawing comfort and guidance from his faith throughout his life and came to terms that his time was near.

In recent weeks, as his health declined, he made the heartfelt decision to relocate from Arizona to Pall Mall, Tennessee approximately 12 weeks ago with the help of his son-in-law, Thomas Cherry and friend Edward Prevet after suffering a fall and broken hip with immediate surgery while packing their home, to ensure that his wife would be closer to her daughters and be able to be cared for-a final act of love and devotion that exemplified the selflessness with which he lived.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Eva Louise McCormick; and by his first wife Donna McCormick, mother of their two children: Sue Ann Cherry of Florida and James T. McCormick Jr. of Nebraska.

His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Kourtney Clark and her husband William of Georgia; Steven Knight and his wife Laura of Maryland; and Elizabeth Easton and her husband Casey of North Carolina. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Kailynn, Lorelai, Jackson, Jet, Mia, and the newest addition to the family, Lexi Rae.

James is further survived by his brother Nathan Brewington of New Castle, Indiana; the Martin nieces Tina, Tonya, and Tammy; and a large extended family from the Brewington clan across Kentucky and Tennessee. His stepchildren Jeff Petersen, Debra Petersen Smith, and Susan Petersen Beaty also remain to honor his memory. He was predeceased by beloved stepson Greg Petersen.

Known affectionately as "Clint," James had a passion for building and flying planes-a hobby that brought him great joy-and a well-known sweet tooth that made dessert one of his favorite indulgences.

Though words can never fully capture the depth of love felt for him by those closest to him, one tribute from his only daughter speaks volumes: "If I could have given you the ability to see yourself through my eyes you would realize how truly special you were to me and all those around you. You had the kindest heart asking nothing in return of anyone except respect and the effort to improve themselves. Thank you for believing in me as your daughter and in your son, along with the possibilities of greatness from your grandchildren more than any of us believed in ourselves. You always saw the best in us. Thank you for being our constant support, providing your endless love, and for being my everlasting best friend. I will always be your little girl… You will always be my greatest hero."

In accordance with the wishes of the stepfamily, cremation has taken place.

Sgt. James "Clint" Thomas McCormick leaves behind a legacy rooted in family, service to country, love, faith, service to others, service to God and unwavering dedication to those he held dear. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.