Jimmy Lee (Jim) Wren
Shelby

Jimmy Lee (Jim) Wren, age 69, of Shelby, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 19 at a local hospital with Linda at his side.

The visitation will be from 10-11 a.m., Monday, Oct. 2 at Bolton Funeral Home. The celebration of his life will follow at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 2 at Bolton Funeral Home with Rev. Judy Quick officiating.

Bolton Funeral Home is directing.

He was born in 1947 in Cullman. He graduated from Mortimer Jordan High School and was not instrumental in the “borrowing” of the Gardendale High School rocket. He also attended Jefferson State Junior College and served in the National Guard.

Jim married his loving wife, Linda, in April 1977. They moved into their home in Shelby Shores in May, where they lived all 40 years of their marriage. He enjoyed lake life with neighbors and friends, both human and animal. He could often be seen riding around the neighborhood in his red Tahoe with his labs on board or enjoying cocktail cruises on the pontoon boat.

He retired in 2000 from BellSouth after 33 years of service. He began his career as a public coin telephone collector and retired as a sales manager. One of the highlights of his career included coordinating telecommunications services for the Republican National Convention in New Orleans. Even after retirement, Jim continued dealing with customers at WRATT Foundation and the Shelby County Reporter. Forever the salesman.

Jim was a fabulous cook, often sharing his culinary delights with others. He enjoyed entertaining, listening to music of all genres, and cheering for his favorite football team. (Roll Tide!)

Jim is preceded in death by his father, Troy Wren, a member of the greatest generation.

He is survived by his precious wife, Linda; his dear mother, Odeen Wren; much loved sister, Phyllis Vines (Mike); sisters-in-law, Bobbie Trammell and Sue Clemons; nieces, Tricia Vines, Cathy Trammell, and Joy Hall (Kevin); nephews, Scott Vines, Russ Trammell (Laurie), Tom Trammell (Christina), Douglas Clemons (Dianne), Jay Clemons, and Scott Earley (Joy); a host of friends; and very special labrador retriever friends, Emma and Iris.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Shelby Humane Society.

Please sign online condolences at Boltonfuneralhome.com.