Dr. James David Loughridge

Dr. James David Loughridge passed away peacefully at his home on March 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 26, 1951, in Chatsworth, GA, to the late James Colquitt and Nell Ruth Davis Loughridge.
David is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Pamelah Daniel Loughridge; his daughter, Mary Beth Cole (Seth); his son, James (Jim) Daniel Loughridge; and his cherished grandchildren, Susannah Cole, Grace Cole, and Ruth Cole. He also leaves behind his sister, Ann Scott (Doug), his brother, Steve Loughridge (Lisa), and many beloved nieces and nephews.
David grew up on Pleasant Valley Farm in Chatsworth, where his love for the outdoors, farming, and Murray County history first took root. He attended Eton Elementary and graduated from Murray County High School in 1969. During his school years, he was actively involved in his church, 4-H, and FFA-organizations that helped shape his character and values. A proud member of the 1969 MCHS state championship basketball team, he often credited mentors like Coach Kenneth Ross and Mr. G.I. Maddox for their lasting influence on his life. David also had a deep and abiding love for horses. A skilled rider, he never missed a Murray County Saddle Club Wagon Train and had countless stories of his adventures riding over the mountain.
David went on to attend the University of Georgia, earning a Bachelor of Agricultural Economics in 1973. Recognizing the need for veterinary services in his hometown, he pursued a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, which he achieved in 1978. His years at UGA were filled with lifelong friendships and involvement in organizations such as ROTC, Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity, and honors societies like AGHON and Gridiron. However, he would say his best decision while in Athens was accepting a dinner invitation to the home of one of his professors and mentors, Dr. Dan Daniel. That evening, he met Dr. Dan's daughter, Pam – who would soon become the love of this life. With persistence and devotion, he won her heart, and they remained inseparable for the rest of his days.
In 1978, David and Pam returned to Chatsworth, where he founded Murray County Veterinary Services, the first veterinary practice in the county's history. Over the next 42 years, he built MCVS into a thriving multi-provider practice, serving the families and farmers of Northwest Georgia until his retirement in 2020. Though he cared for animals of all kinds, his passion was bovine herd health. His dedication to the field was recognized in 2013 when he was named Veterinarian of the Year by the Georgia Cattlemen's Association.
Though a veterinarian by profession, David was a farmer at heart. He often quipped that he became a veterinarian to support his farming addiction. After returning to Chatsworth, he took over the family farm, later partnering with his brother, Steve, to transform it into a successful commercial beef cattle operation. In the years that followed, they expanded into poultry farming, continuing the legacy of Pleasant Valley Farm with unwavering dedication.
David was deeply committed to his community. He was often found reading his copy of Murray County Heritage and possessing an uncanny ability to recall the history of nearly every family and place in the county. As a sixth-generation Loughridge in Murray County, his love for the area was instilled early by his parents, who were actively involved in local organizations. He carried that commitment throughout his life, supporting initiatives such as National Resources Conservation Service, Murray County 4-H and FFA, and the Appalachian and Georgia Cattlemen's Associations. His work as a veterinarian led him to establish an annual rabies clinic-a mobile service widely known for providing essential care to pets and peace of mind to their owners. He also served for many years as a trustee of the Murray-Whitfield Historical Society, playing a vital role in preserving the region's rich heritage. David's commitment to his community was recognized in 2013 when he was inducted into the Murray County High School Hall of Fame.
A devout man of faith, David was a follower of Jesus Christ. Paul's exhortation to the Philippians- "Let your gentleness be evident to all"-perfectly reflected the way he lived. Anyone who knew David would agree that he embodied those words. His faith was evident in every aspect of his life, from the way he loved his family and treated those around him to his unwavering commitment to serving his church. Over the years, he served his First Baptist Chatsworth family in many roles, including deacon for 35 years, Sunday School teacher, VBS volunteer, and Wednesday supper dishwasher-a ministry from which, many joked, no one ever truly retired.
David's life was defined by his deep love for his family, his community, and the land that shaped him. His legacy of hard work, service, and kindness will live on through his family and those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Funeral services for Dr. Loughridge will be held on Sunday, March 23rd at 2pm at the First Baptist Church of Chatsworth with Revs. Tommy Crider, George Ross, and Randy Ellis officiating.
The family will receive friends at Peeples Funeral Home of Chatsworth on Saturday, March 22nd from 4:00pm – 7:00pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Chatsworth or the Murray-Whitfield Historical Society.
Peeples Funeral Home & Crematory of Chatsworth has been entrusted with the arrangements for Dr. David Loughridge.