James B. McGavock

James Bowman McGavock, 92, a dedicated husband and father, passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at the Legacy at North Augusta in Staunton, a day before his 93rd birthday. 

Born on November 13, 1931, at Big Lick in Botetourt County, to the late John Williamson McGavock IV and Lucille A. Kinney McGavock, James exemplified a life filled with hard work, community service, and passion for the outdoors.

James began his career as a forklift mechanic, starting at the Homestead Materials Handling Company before spending twenty-one years at NIBCO in Stuarts Draft. His dedication to his work and commitment to excellence were hallmarks of his professional life.

In addition to his professional endeavors, James served his country honorably by enlisting in the United States Army in 1952. He served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and steadily rose through the ranks, achieving the rank of 1st Lieutenant before being discharged in 1964. This period of service reflected his strong character and commitment to duty, honor, and integrity.

Growing up on the family farm in Clifton Forge, James developed an early love for the outdoors, learning to drive a tractor at the age of nine. After graduating from Clifton Forge High School in 1948, he cultivated this passion, enjoying activities such as hunting, fishing, backpacking, and skiing. At the age of 49, James discovered a profound love for skiing, eventually sharing his expertise by teaching the sport for a decade. He was also known for his love of machines, with a keen interest in motorcycles, bicycles, and planes. His dedication to aviation included obtaining a private pilot's license.

An ardent enthusiast of farming, gardening, woodworking, and blacksmithing, James embodied the spirit of a gentleman farmer, finding joy in crafting and nurturing the earth and its bounties.

James was deeply involved in his community and faith as a long-time member of Hebron Presbyterian Church in Staunton. He was an active participant: serving as a deacon, elder, and Sunday School teacher, while also volunteering for numerous committees over the years, leaving a lasting impact on those he served alongside.

James is survived by his beloved wife of seventy-two years, Louise Corell McGavock; his cherished daughters, Nancy Lucille McGavock Dickerson and Deborah Katherine McGavock McDonough; his brothers, Robertson Crockett McGavock and Donald Francis McGavock; his sisters, Betty Lou Layne Cosgrove and Mary Anne Layne; his grandchildren, Megan Hathaway and her husband, Mike, Ryan McDonough and his wife, Lindsey, and Lauren Wren and her husband, Graeme; and five great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, John "Bill" Williamson McGavock V, Edwin Harris McGavock, and Albert Kelly McGavock.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Hebron Presbyterian Church with the Reverend Doctor Henry Scoggins officiating.

Interment was private at Hebron Presbyterian Church Cemetery.