James "Jim" Leach

James "Jim" Leach passed away December 9, 2025, at the age of 90 after an extended illness.

Jim was born in Highland County, Virginia to French and Betty Rexrode Leach. He was the fifth of eighteen children. He served twenty years in the US Air Force including a tour in Vietnam and then retired from the US Postal Service in Kingsport. Jim was a much-loved friend, father and grandfather. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Lois Ann Ragle Leach and his son-in-law Tony Bellamy.

Jim is survived by: his son, James D. Leach and his partner Sherry Chapman; his daughter, Angela Leach Bellamy; and three grandchildren: Caleb Bellamy, Colton Bellamy and Austin Bellamy. Previously deceased siblings include: Charlotte Mae, Twolla Virginia, Polly Virginia, William Darell, Anna Lee, Gordon Russell, Nellie Virginia, Pauline Virginia, Mary Jane, French, Jr., and Jo Anna. Surviving siblings are: Frank Lee, Paul Rudolph, Joy Ann, Bruce Cleveland, Ethel Margaret and Richard Earnest.

Special thanks go to niece Rhonda McGhee for all her help, valuable advice and love during Jim's illness and his passing. We'd also like to thank the nurses, aides and staff at Preston Place Suites for all their love, kindness and consideration while he stayed with them.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 – 6:00 PM on Monday, December 15, 2025, at Mount Carmel United Methodist Church with Pastor Craig Needham officiating. The funeral service will follow the visitation. Burial will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Liberty Hill Cemetery in Mount Carmel. Military honors will be conducted by American Legion Hammond Post # 3/265. Family and friends are invited to gather at Jimmy's house following the graveside service. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the cemetery by 12:45 PM.

Honorary pallbearers will be Caleb, Colton, and Austin Bellamy, Darell, Donnie, and David Leach, Steve Gibson, Mark and Mike Hawn.