Jimmie Elmer “Jim” Tickle

November 15, 1943 – July 2, 2026

Jimmie Elmer “Jim” Tickle, 82, of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, July 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on November 15, 1943, in Mount Airy, North Carolina, Jim was the son of the late Carl and Maude Tickle.

Jim shared 61 wonderful years of marriage with his wife, Jerrie Tickle, whom he loved dearly. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and caring for others.

In addition to his devoted wife, Jim is survived by his daughter, Angie Douglass and her husband, Don Douglass Jr., of Tega Cay, South Carolina; his son, Jon Tickle and his wife, Lara, of Minneapolis, Minnesota; his cherished grandchildren, Dr. Megan Roberts and her husband, Ben, of Conway, South Carolina; Don Douglass III, who is pursuing his MBA while playing collegiate basketball at Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan; and Lydia and Finley Tickle of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Moore of McLeansville, North Carolina. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his sister, Carlene Renegar of Charlotte, North Carolina.

Jim devoted more than 35 years to the grocery industry, serving as a store manager for both Food World and Harris Teeter. Throughout his career, he earned the respect and admiration of coworkers, employees, and customers alike. He had a gift for recognizing potential in others and took great pride in hiring and mentoring many young employees, including bag boys who went on to become store managers themselves. The impact he had on those he trained and encouraged extended far beyond the workplace, and many considered Jim not only a leader, but also a mentor and friend.

A man of unwavering faith, Jim was a devoted member of Northwest Baptist Church in Winston-Salem and later Pfafftown Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a Deacon and Sunday School teacher until declining health made it no longer possible. His quiet strength, servant’s heart, and steadfast faith were evident throughout his life. Jim was devoted to Scripture and prayer, faithfully reading his Bible and spending time with daily devotionals. He shared his faith with many through both his words and actions, continuing to encourage others and share God’s love even in his final days.

Above all else, Jim was a loving husband, devoted father, proud Papa and Grandpa, and loyal friend. He had a warm smile, a generous spirit, and a remarkable gift for making others feel welcome. Whether sharing a meal, offering encouragement, or lending a helping hand, Jim made people feel valued and cared for.

He enjoyed playing golf with his golf buddies, proudly cheering for the North Carolina Tar Heels and NC State Wolfpack, celebrating the universities where his children graduated, as well as the New York Yankees. Most of all, Jim treasured time spent with his family and friends. His greatest joy came from being surrounded by the people he loved, whose lives were forever enriched by his love, guidance, and example.

A private family service celebrating Jim’s life will be held at a later date.

Everyone who knew Jim knew how much he loved food and getting out to enjoy a meal with family and friends, especially going out for breakfast. Whether gathering around the family table, meeting for breakfast, or enjoying a favorite restaurant, food was one of his favorite ways to bring people together. In his memory, his family encourages everyone to take someone to breakfast, lunch, or dinner—whether a friend, neighbor, family member, or someone who could use a little companionship—and simply enjoy time together. There is no better way to celebrate Jim’s life than by sharing kindness, conversation, and fellowship around the table.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels of Winston-Salem, North Carolina or to the American Parkinson Disease Association in support of Parkinson’s disease research.

Jim’s favorite Bible verse was John 3:16, a verse that reflected the faith he lived by and the hope he carried throughout his life.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” — John 3:16

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