James R. "Jimmy" Bullock Jr.

1948 - 2017

James R. "Jimmy" Bullock, Jr.

Greensboro

Business owner, "Boss", cattle rancher, big game fisherman, gourmet cook, classic car collector, beloved husband and brother, best PaPa ever to his granddaughters; all describe James R. "Jimmy" Bullock, Jr.

Jimmy passed away peacefully at Cone Hospital, surrounded by family and legions of friends, on Friday night, September 1, following a stroke.

Born in Greensboro to James Roeder Bullock and Virginia Norris Bullock, Jimmy graduated from Ragsdale High School, and Wingate University, on whose Board he serves. He then enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and was assigned to Special Forces to protect President Nixon at Key Biscayne. Many great stories flowed from this experience!

Jimmy married Cynthia LeGette in 1970 and had one child, James Roeder Bullock III, both of whom predeceased him. Jimmy honored Cynthia's memory with the opening of the Cynthia LeGette Bullock Center for Music Studies at Wingate University, in 2015.

After military service, he returned to Greensboro to join Environmental Air Systems, the company his father founded in 1953. Jimmy became President of EAS, and under his leadership grew the company to over 1000 employees and a national innovator in mechanical contracting solutions, including holding several patent rights. It was nearly impossible to beat Jimmy to the office each workday!

Jimmy loved his EAS family, and in return, was repaid with his employees' incredible loyalty and work ethic. Jimmy supported his industry with various scholarships and was honored by ASHRAE as a member of its Century Club.

Jimmy retired from EAS in 2015 and was ready for his next adventure with his wife, Sherry. Long- time friends, Sherry and Jimmy's paths crossed a few years ago, and out of a shared history and mutual respect, a deep love blossomed and they were married on December 31, 2015.

Sherry brought great joy and happiness to his life, and he treasured every minute with her. They had the BEST two years, traveling to beautiful, exotic places. Closer to home, it was always a party aboard the 'Frequent Flyer', in the Bahamas or Florida.

Jimmy was a member of Sedgefield Country Club and the Hatteras Marlin Club. Jimmy was an avid fisherman all his life. Well recognized in the angler world, his crowning achievements were winning the World Cup in 2003 and the Hatteras Marlin Club tournament in 2012. Many youngsters have fond memories of catching their first fish aboard Jimmy's boats.

Jimmy never met a stranger and had a heart as large as his beloved Bullhorn Ranch. He was never happier than spending time with friends and family at the Ranch. He was the consummate host, with his quick wit, hilarious yarns, and hardy laugh. His barbeques were legendary! Animals were also blessed to know Jimmy, as his ranch became a sanctuary for horses, dogs, llamas, pigs, mules, and swans. Jimmy could not say 'no' to anyone or thing in need. Jimmy had recently lost his best canine friend, Misty, a blue heeler.

Sherry and Jimmy attended Westover Church. Jimmy's Christian commitment to giving back knew no bounds. His public generosity was well known, but he also supported many groups and individuals in a quiet way. He touched so many lives. He was proud of his association with the Masons, serving as a member of the Royal Order of the Jester and a past Director of the Charlotte Court.

'Hail-fellow-well-met'… Jimmy Bullock

Jimmy is survived by his loving wife, Sherry, his brother, Willie and wife, Lisa, his beloved granddaughters, Megan and Sarah; his nephews Bill and Tom, and a wonderful, supportive extended family and oceans of dear friends.

The family would like to thank Cone ICU for the dedicated, compassionate care during this difficult time.

A Gathering of family and friends will be held on Wednesday, September 6, from 4-6 p.m. at Hanes Lineberry North Elm Chapel. A celebration of his life will be held on September 23 at 11 a.m at Bullhorn Ranch.

Memorial gifts may be made to Crossnore School, Family Service of the Piedmont, or the charity of donor choice.

Hanes Lineberry North Elm Chapel will be handling arrangements for the family. Online condolences may be made to www.haneslineberryfuneral homes.com