James T. "Jimmy" Harrelson, age 74, of Savannah, passed away January 13, 2017 at Hospice Savannah with his family by his side. He was born in Savannah, the son of the late William Thomas Harrelson and Jewel Louise McConnell.
Jimmy was educated in the public school system, graduating from Groves High School and remained a life-long resident of Savannah. Though he had a variety of interests, fishing was dear to Jimmy's heart. When not working, he was known to drop a hook in any available freshwater river or stream. If they weren't biting at one spot, he'd go find another because he just loved to fish. He may not have always hooked 'em, but hope sprang eternal and what a way to while away an afternoon!
When not fishing, Jimmy enjoyed a long career as a photographer at Gulfstream Aerospace. For many years, the in-flight or in-air images that introduced new Gulfstream jets to the world were Jimmy's photos. At the time of his retirement, he headed the repographics department there. He had a life-long love of all things connected to photography. He was equally happy and excited about taking his children with him for a shoot at the Savannah Wildlife Refuge or a high school football game on Friday night as he was to be capturing an iconic historical image, or soaring above the clouds in a jet with his lens pointed out the cabin window.
He is survived by his wife of over 54 years, Sandra Fender Harrelson; a daughter, Andrea Lynn Harrelson, both of Savannah; a son, James T. "Jim" (Felicia) Harrelson, Jr., of Rincon; five grandchildren, Michelle (Michael) Hollon, of Norfolk, VA, Trenton (Maria) Nichols, of Springfield, Dylan, Bryan, and Kristyn Harrelson, of Rincon; two great-granddaughters, Abigail Nichols and Ava Grace Hollon, of Springfield; three brothers, Theodore "Ted" Harrelson, of Charleston, SC, Johnny Harrelson, of Gray, GA, William T. Harrelson, Jr., of North Carolina; several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends Monday evening, January 16, 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Strickland Funeral Home - West Chatham Chapel. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Humane Society of Greater Savannah 7215 Sallie Mood Drive Savannah, GA 31406.