James Galen Chilton born on November, 22nd, 1937, son of Thomas J Chilton and Thela Pummill Chilton Winterbottom on a farm between the Jack’s Fork and Current Rivers. James, or Jim as his friends and family called him, spent most of his life near Eminence MO, besides his attendance at Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield MO where he received his Master’s degree in education. His early work was with the Missouri Conservation Commission and then with his brother Leroy at the Current Wave Newspaper. His passions included teaching, woodworking, hunting (especially wild turkey), and spending time with his wife and family. He began his teaching career with 2 years at rural schools in Shannon County, and then a 24 year career for the Eminence School District. He was very much admired by his fellow colleagues and students. He enjoyed weekends in Blair’s Creek at the Winterbottom cabin where many memories were created. In retirement, Jim thoroughly enjoyed his hobby of woodworking that was instilled by his stepfather Walt. He created turkey calls that were true works of art. His wife painted them which was a joy for them both.
James (Jim) had two brothers Thomas Leroy Chilton and Richard Pummill Chilton. Jim’s biological father passed away when he was just a boy, and his mother remarried, Walter Winterbottom, who became a father to him. Jim met the love of his life, Vada Rae Wallace, and had the pleasure of marrying on August, 3rd, 1956. They shared 65 years of marriage and 3 children; Elizabeth Ann (Chilton) Martin, Kari Sue Chilton, and Michael James Chilton. At his time of passing he was fortunate to have been in the comfort of his own home and surrounded by his wife and children. There is a quote by Andy Pettitte, “When someone has the ability to impact people’s lives, I think that’s one of the greatest things that God gives us as individuals”, and that is exactly what he made his life and career about. He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.
Jim attended the Mountain View Church of Christ where he could be found each Sunday morning.
James was preceded in death by; his father, Thomas Chilton, his mother, Thela Pummill Chilton Winterbottom, his stepfather Walter Winterbottom, his brothers Leroy Chilton and Richard Chilton, granddaughter Megan (Chilton) Pfleegor, and great granddaughter Kinley Martin.
James is survived by; his wife, Vada Chilton, daughters, Elizabeth (Chilton) Martin and Kari Chilton, his son, Michael Chilton, grandchildren, Seth Martin, Zack Martin, Cody Brown, great grandchildren, Knox Pfleegor, Vada Pfleegor, and Paisley Martin
