Jimmy E. Pridgen

Jimmy E. Pridgen, Sr. (September 1, 1945) met Jesus and began his dance on streets of gold Saturday, August 27, 2016.

Jimmy is survived by his wife of 5 years, Karen Pridgen of Comer, GA; his daughter, Lisa and husband, Jim Carpenter; his son, Jay Pridgen and wife, Sonja of Hull, Ga; his siblings, Margaret (Sezai) Gursel, Sam (Brenda) Pridgen and Dan (Linda) Pridgen.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, Nancy C Pridgen. Together they had seven grandchildren, Cassidy (Justin) Sorrow, Jayson (Amanda) Pridgen, Hunter and Cheyenne Pridgen, MacLean, Micah and Mackenzie Carpenter; three great grandchildren, Jayden and Kaydence Pridgen and Beau Sorrow.

Jimmy was also survived by his step-children Melissa (Josh) Wilhoit, Meredith (Trey) Merrill, and Micah Singley along with their children Savannah, Christopher, Scarlet, Claire and Ashton Wilhoit; Ryder Merrill

Jimmy moved to this area in 1972, when he opened the Western Auto in Comer, GA. He had previously worked with large department stores in neighboring states but chose this area to plant his roots, raise his family and invest in this community. Jimmy was an entrepreneur, he was always looking for the next new idea. He started and owned multiple businesses in the area over the last 44 years with the last 25 years focusing on his real estate acquisitions through Pridgen Enterprises and partnership in Dalton Carpet One.

Jimmy came from very humble beginnings, which contributed to his extreme drive, determination and work ethic. He expected a lot but he also gave a lot. Jimmy had a generous heart. He never met a stranger, was kind to everyone, and was always full of life and energy. He loved his family greatly and enjoyed taking them on vacations, playing on the lake, eating lots of ice cream, and seeing the smiles as they experienced each new adventure. He loved children and desired every child not only be fed and clothed but also have a toy!

Jimmy was a member of the Comer Lions club for many years where he actively participated in community events.

Jimmy was a member of Compass Church for 14 years, where he was a participant on the leadership teams and joined a men's small group that continued to meet in his home, pray for and offer encouragement throughout his illness. He was also a participant in the Walk to Emmaus as well as a member of the Gideons.

Jimmy could never pass up a good auction and loved to gamble and fish - however, he would want you to know he never gambled with his salvation and he desired to be a fisher of men. Jimmy would always say "MY GOD IS REAL!" His first question after church each Sunday was - "How many salvations today?" Jimmy gave his life to Christ later in life at the age of 30. He was always a tough negotiator and straight shooter, when it came to business, however, his heart was for everyone to know his Savior, Jesus Christ. No matter where he was, if the opportunity presented itself, Jimmy would share the life-giving story of salvation.

While Jimmy left a great legacy on earth for his family, his most important gift was the spiritual legacy he handed off to his friends and family. Jimmy invested well in the generation behind him, impacted the generation beside him, and inspired the generation ahead of him. He was one of kind!!

A Celebration of Jimmy's life led by Vernon Brady, Gordon Rhoden, and Jim Carpenter will be held this Tuesday, August 30, 2016 at 3 pm at Cornerstone Church, Athens, GA (4680 Lexington Rd). The family will receive friends from 1:00-2:15pm before the service.

In lieu of flowers, you may make donations to Grace Farm/ F.E.M.I Jim Pridgen Honorarium - a local Christian student summer camp (www.gracefarmonline.com or mail check to 2694 HW 174, Danielsville, GA 30633) OR The Gideons.

Lord& Stephens Funeral Home East has charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com 1945 - 2016