James "Jim" Tennant

James Gaston Tennant, age 83, passed away on September 26 while doing what he loved, riding his Harley on a scenic Virginia highway.

Jim was born on June 12, 1942, in Newberry, South Carolina to the late Ebenezer Gaston Tennant and Lucille Lester Tennant. Jim will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 57 years, Bess Vansant Tennant and children Shannon Tennant, Chad Tennant and his spouse Christina Tennant, sibling Betty Edwards, four cherished grandchildren: Sydney, Kylee, Shelby and Braeden and numerous other family members and friends.

Jim served in the U.S. Navy, Seabees, where he served in two tours in Vietnam (65-67) and received Vietnam Service Medals, Vietnam Campaign Medal and the National Defense Service medal.

As a civilian, Jim was employed in various states by Singer (SC and AR) and American Meter (PA). In 1984, Jim moved his family to Lynchburg where he worked at GE, Framatome and Virginia Transformers prior to retiring in 2005.

Jim is fondly remembered for his love of, and loyalty to, his family and many passions that he shared with his long time buddies and family. As an avid outdoorsman, he spent many years along the East coast whitewater canoeing/rafting, exploring wilderness caves, cycling along the roadside and in the mountains, skier, avid hiker (completing the Appalachian Trail in 1996 and Pacific Crest Trail in 2005), rock-climber and hunter.

Jim got involved in Boy Scouting where he helped his son get to Eagle Scout and then carried on teaching and guiding other young men well past after Chad left to go to college. Jim was honored by receiving the Order of the Arrow.

Jim was a beacon of support for countless veterans and their families, tirelessly working with organizations like National Center for Healthy Veterans, Lynchburg Area Veterans Council, the Desmond Doss house, and Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. His goal was to advocate and bring awareness for veterans by hands on assistance through volunteering. The Navy Seabee “Can do” was a driving force behind his actions.

Jim was a member and strong supporter of Vietnam Veterans of America, American Legion, Lynchburg Area Veterans Council, Patriot Guard, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Organization and Timberlake Church.

His dedication and compassion left an indelible mark on the lives of those he helped.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the American Legion riders who were with Jim on Friday, September 26. True meaning of Leave No Soldier Behind, Leave No Biker Behind.

Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, October 11 at 2 PM at the National Center for Healthy Veterans, 980 Wards Road, Altavista, VA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to the National Center for Healthy Veterans or the Lynchburg Area Veterans Council.

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.