James "Jim" Younkin

James (Jim) Russell Younkin, 67, went to be with our Lord on February 3, 2025. He passed at home surrounded by his family. Jim was born at Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville, TN, on March 28, 1957. He grew up in Hillcrest Heights, MD, and his parents relocated to Oak Ridge, TN, before his Junior year of high school. While at ORHS, Jim played football, was an Eagle Scout and was a lifeguard at the "big pool" in the summer. Jim lived and raised his family in Oak Ridge from that point on. "Yo" got his bachelor's and master's degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Tennessee. In 1981, he went to work for the Y-12 National Security Complex and then Oak Ridge National Lab, where he had a 43-year career. As a senior nuclear safeguards engineer, he was proud of his contributions to nonproliferation for his country. He cared deeply for his family and lived a life of service through involvement in multiple community organizations and initiatives. In August of 2024, Jim was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, which he fought and received treatment for with great bravery and poise. He leaves a legacy of work ethic, compassion and an adventurous spirit; his mark on the world will not soon be forgotten.
Jim is preceded in death by his father, Russell Younkin, and his mother, Ethyln Lofton Younkin.
He is survived by his wife, Sheri Lynn Younkin, and his sons, Dave Younkin, Steve Younkin (Justine), Tim Younkin (Callie), and stepson Corey Lee (Megan). He is also survived by ten grandchildren: Lennox, Presley, Vander (Steve and Justine), Adaline, Lydia, and Brienne (Tim and Callie), Brennon, Ryland, Bodhi, and Winnie (Corey and Megan).
Receiving of friends will occur on Saturday, Feb 8 at 3-5 pm at First Baptist Church in Oak Ridge, with service to follow at 5 pm.