James (Jim) A. Upton, 82, of Shelby, NC, went home to be with his heavenly Father on Wednesday, November 15, 2024.

Born on August 3, 1942, he was the son of the late Viola Johnson and James Theodore Upton. Jim retired from Hoechst Celanese as a human resource supervisor after a dedicated career. He proudly served his country as an Airman First Class IC in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1966. A man of many passions, Jim loved working in his yard and tending to his plants, a reflection of his care and commitment to nurturing life. Jim was a devoted husband to Kaye Allen Upton, his wife of 55 years, and a loving father to Angela McKee (husband Steve) and Kelly Upton (wife Stephanie). He cherished his grandchildren: Mariah Hardin (Logan), Marcus McKee, Austin McKee (Taylor Canipe), Carter Vincent (Abby Nyberg), and Spencer Upton, as well as his great-grandchild, Avery Hardin. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Norma Frady, and her husband Mike Frady. A faithful member of Zoar Baptist Church, Jim found strength in his faith in Jesus and his church community. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful Hospice staff with VIA Health Partners for their compassionate care. Jim will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his devotion to his family, and his deep love of nature and life's simple joys.
CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE: Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Jim's life to be held on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the home of his daughter, Angela, at 2629 Cleveland Avenue, Grover, North Carolina

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: The family will hold a private graveside service.

INTERMENT: Patterson Springs Baptist Church Cemetery, Grover, North Carolina

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice or VIA Health Partner of Cleveland County.

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