Jimmy R. "Jim" Appleton
Decatur
Jimmy R. "Jim" Appleton went to live with his Lord and savior on Tuesday, October 24, 2017. Jim was born on February 23, 1943 in Moulton, Alabama to Ray and Nadine (Fretwell) Appleton, who preceded him in death.
Jim was a 1966 graduate of the University of North Alabama and began his professional career as a high school classroom teacher in his hometown of Decatur, Alabama. During his second year teaching he was selected as the "Outstanding Young Educator" at his school. In 1969 Jim changed his career field by accepting a position with the Alabama Credit Union League. This led to a distinguished career of 36 years in the credit union movement. The last 26 years, prior to his retirement in 2005, were spent as president of Eglin Federal Credit Union. During his credit union tenure, Mr. Appleton received numerous awards including a prestigious "National Professional of the Year" award in 1984.
Mr. Appleton loved credit unions and founded more than a half-dozen during his career. He was a member of the CUNA Founders Club, Credit Union Executives Society, and numerous national, state, and local credit union committees.
Jim also loved his church where he was a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and committee member. But, the greatest event in Jim's life was the great fortune to meet and marry the love of his life, Marguerite (Garnett) Appleton, on November 29, 1963. Upon his death they had been married for 54 years. They had two fine children in Robert Scott (Kimber) and Jon Christopher (Lisa). The apples of granddaddy's eye, though, were grandchildren Sadie Marguerite and Jonythan Michael.
Jim is survived by his brother Scotty of Pinson, Alabama.
A time of visitation will be held on Sunday October 29, 2017 from 2 to 3 p.m. at Ridout's Brown-Service Funeral Home, 711 Memorial Drive SW, Decatur, AL, with service to follow at 3 p.m. in the chapel.
Mr. Appleton lived his life under the motto, "Life is not so short that there is not always time for courtesy." He was a gentleman who loved his God, his family, and his country.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be sent to the Choctawhatchee Style Marchers Alumni Association in Fort Walton Beach, Florida..