Jimie Edward Yearwood

Jimie Edward Yearwood, age 84, of Crestview, Florida (formerly of Habersham County, Ga) passed away on Friday, February 12, 2021.

Born on June 29, 1936, to Allie Wes and Grace (Cronic) Yearwood in Crawfordville, GA. Jimie was 17 when he joined the US Army in 1953. In 1961, he married the love of his life, JoAnn Schlecht. Together they traveled the world and raised their 6 children.

Jim retired from the US Army in 1973. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam where he earned his Purple Heart. He was especially proud to tell people that four of his children chose to follow his example by enlisting in the US military and serving the country he loved so much.

He and JoAnn settled in Habersham County, Georgia, and were the proud Owners of a Rainbow Carpet Care and Restoration franchise for almost 27 years. At corporate headquarters in Waco, Texas, he was affectionately known as ‘Papa Rainbow’.

Once he retired and moved to Crestview, Florida, his favorite hobbies became keeping his, Elaine’s (daughter), and Michele’s (granddaughter) lawns mown and free of roots; adding on to and tinkering in his man cave, and listening to his favorite music.

As a member of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Crestview, he continued the faith journey which he began early in life. He loved his family deeply and they loved him. He enjoyed being surrounded by family and was grateful for the blessings that come with a life fully lived. As his body failed him, he chose to stay positive and upbeat. He was a role model to his last breath.

Jim’s motto for life was about “Having fun in the process.”

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, JoAnn, and children, Elaine (Guy) Stockton , Westly Yearwood, Michael Yearwood, Jayne Follis, Helen (Patrick) Yearwood, Jimie (Carrie) Yearwood Jr , 12 Grandchildren and 6 Great Grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, A.W. and Grace Yearwood, and two sisters, Louise Edwards and Doris Lipham.

Arrangements are entrusted to Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview. Guest book and condolences are available online at www.whitehurstpowellfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jimie Edward Yearwood, please visit our floral store.