Mr. James M. Choate (Jim)

Mr. James M. Choate (Jim), a long-time resident of Dothan, passed away on Sunday, November 15, 2020, surrounded by his wife and children after a hard-fought battle with Covid-19. Jim was 74 years old.

Graveside services, with military honors, will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, November 21, 2020 at Sunset Memorial Park with Pastor Ricky Plummer officiating. Pallbearers will be Mr. Choate’s six grandsons. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, 1235 S. Clark, Ste. 910, Arlington, VA 22202, or Covid-19 research at www.hopkinsmedicine.org.

Jim was born in Miller, Mo. to the late Mancel and Waymeth Choate. After graduation from Miller High School, he entered the U.S. Army in 1966, and served his country with two tours in Vietnam, three years in Germany, and one year in Korea. He retired with the rank of Master Sergeant in 1987 after twenty years and five months of service. Jim was a decorated veteran receiving numerous commendations including a Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Medal with two V Device, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Silver Star, and numerous others. Jim also had over 4,500 flight hours in his beloved CH 47 Chinooks. He was a very proud “Hillclimber”.

After his retirement, Jim built, owned, and operated Air Cooled Performance for several years before being employed with DCS Headstart. Jim enjoyed fishing along with restoring and showing classic cars.

Jim is survived by his wife of fifty-one and a half years, Sharron; a son, Richie (Cheryl) Choate; daughters, Leann Messer and Candy (Jason) Parnell; ten grandchildren and seven great grandchildren; a brother, Hal (Debbie) Choate; a sister, Pearl Swearingen, both of Miller, MO; and several nieces and nephews, beloved extended family and many good friends.

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604