James Edward Gabriel

James Edward “Jim” Gabriel, cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and son, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025 at the age of 67. Born in Athens, he was the oldest son of Doris Busbin Gabriel and the late Garnett Gabriel. Jim retired from the Georgia Forestry Commission after more than 30 years of service. An avid outdoorsman with a passion for hunting and fishing, he was a former Boy Scout leader and a proud supporter of the University of Georgia Bulldogs. He was a member of Sonlight Baptist Church where he faithfully served as a deacon for many years.

Jim was a man of deep faith, strong values, and unwavering commitment to his family and community. Known for his dependability, he generously gave his time and talents to those around him. A jack-of-all-trades with a keen interest in history, he was always willing to lend a hand or share a story. His children, Brett and Jessica, will forever treasure the values their father instilled in them. Jim was a devoted and present parent, never missing a single sporting event or performance. He carried that same dedication into his role as a grandfather, attending as many of Gavin and Brogen’s events as possible—even while courageously facing the challenges of Parkinson’s disease.

In addition to his mother, Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Sherrie Raley Gabriel; his children, Brett Gabriel (Ashley) and Jessica Gabriel; siblings, Robbin Wilkes (Jamie), Keith Gabriel (Royce), Rusty Gabriel, and Rhonda Doster (Derek); grandchildren, Gavin Gabriel and Brogen Gabriel; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Sonlight Baptist Church with interment following in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 from 6:00 until 8:00 pm at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be: Gavin Gabriel, Brogen Gabriel, Trent Wilkes, Clay Gabriel, Colt Doster, and Beau Gabriel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sonlight Baptist Church, 1134 Hargrove Lake Road, Colbert, GA 30628, or to the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org.

Lord and Stephens, East is in charge of arrangements.