James Meredith "Jim" Cleek

James Meredith “Jim” Cleek, age 82 of Springville, TN, died Thursday, October 22, 2020, at his residence.

Jim was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving for four years.  After beginning his electrical engineer training in the Navy, he attended Purdue University for more electrical engineering training.  He retired after a long career as an electrical engineer for Inland Steel Company, Plumley, Wrangler, Washtex, and E & W Electric.  Jim also formerly owned his own electrical repair business.  He enjoyed fishing and golfing and was Church of Christ by belief.

Jim was born April 18, 1938, in Halls, TN, to the late Levin Franklin Cleek and the late Jessie Pearl Leonard Cleek.

He was married on March 3,1968 to JoAnn Rork Cleek, who survives, of Springville, TN.

Along with his wife, he is also survived by one son, Bill Cleek of Camden, TN; one brother, Don Cleek of Athens, AL; three grandchildren, William Cleek, Jennifer Cleek, and Julia Cleek; and two great grandchildren, William Grey Cleek and Payton Riley Cleek.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by two sons, John Paul Cleek and Jimmy Andrew Chowning; one sister, Nelda Bishop; one brother, Bobby Cleek; and one grandson, Cory Cleek.

Arrangements are being handled by Ridgeway Funeral Home, 201 Dunlap Street, P.O. Box 788, Paris, TN 38242.  Visitation will be Wednesday, October 28, 2020, from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at Ridgeway Funeral Home, with the funeral service to begin at 1:00 pm at LeDon Chapel of Ridgeway Funeral Home, with his nephew, Bro. Jerry Cleek officiating.  Military honors will be rendered at the service.

Cremation will follow the service.