James Francis “Jim” Ligon Jr., 77, of Statesville, N.C., passed away on Tuesday November 12, 2024, at his home with his loving wife by his side. He was born on May 29,1947, in Rowan County to the late James and Mary Bost Ligon.

Jim was a graduate of Rowan Technical Institute and began work at Caterpillar in Charlotte as a welder. He welded for several companies, ending his welding career at Grinnell Fire Protection Systems. His second career was driving a delivery truck in North Carolina and parts of Virginia for Matlock’s Used Cars and Parts in Cleveland, N.C., from where he retired in 2009. Jim formed many lifelong friendships with co-workers. He had a strong work ethic, and many were impressed by his dedication to his employers.

Jim met his future wife, the former Sue Hudgins, in 1972, and they married two years later on August 17, 1974. In 50 years of marriage, Jim and Sue enjoyed many happy adventures together. One of the best experiences was designing and building, with their own hands, their home on the family farm. Jim and Sue worked for several years to make their dream a reality.

Jim’s passion was hunting, especially deer and dove. He began spending time in the woods when he was very young and often sneaked off to go hunting instead of getting on the school bus. He could tell many exciting stories of hunts he had enjoyed, always remembering every detail. He arranged many dove hunts for family and friends that he thoroughly enjoyed and would then replay them over and over again in his mind. His best hunting adventure is a 10-point buck harvested on his land, now proudly named “Andrew,” hanging on the wall.

Jim was an avid reader until his health began to fail. He read over 500 Westerns and every hunting magazine he could find. He thoroughly enjoyed watching Westerns and spending time with his loved ones. He believed in old-fashioned values and was most comfortable in jeans with suspenders and a plaid shirt.

There was nothing flashy about Jim. He was an honest and simple man who loved being outdoors. He treasured quiet conversations with those who shared his interests. He possessed a keen, analytical mind, never making a decision about any project or purchase without giving it lots of thought. Jim was fearless, principled, and generous. His faith in God was steadfast and he studied his Bible as his guide in every situation.

Those who predeceased him include his parents; his brother, David, and his sister, Margaret; and uncles Roy (Eunice) Bost, Everett (Sarah) Bost, and Garland Bost.

He is survived by his wife Sue; niece, Kathy Caudle Ligon (Ken) and their children; nephew, Robert (Maria) Ligon and their children; and nephew Douglas Ligon. Additional surviving cousins include Little Roy Bost, Johnny Bost, and Donnie (Teresa) Bost.

Jim was a lifelong member of Abilene Church of Christ, where his service will take place on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 12 noon. Rev. David Childress and Rev. Jeff Holder will officiate. An opportunity to visit with family members will follow. Please dress casually at Jim’s request. The church is located at 120 Bell Farm Road, Statesville. Pallbearers include Bill Walker, Tyler Messick, Shane Porter, Bruce Upright, Richard Sykes and Jake Williams.

The family would like to express their deep and abiding appreciation to Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County for the wonderful care Jim received and are especially grateful to Stephanie who diligently and with great compassion took care of Jim in his final days.

Memorials may be sent to Hospice and Palliative Care, 2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625.

Nicholson Funeral Home is honored to serve the Ligon family.