James Foley

November 11, 1942 — January 8, 2026

Crossville, TN

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James Dean Foley

November 11, 1942 – January 8, 2026

James “Jim” Foley was a man of remarkable depth, grit, and heart—fiercely devoted to family and shaped by a life of service, discipline, and unapologetic authenticity.

A decorated U.S. Navy Frogman and SEAL, Jim carried his commitment to excellence throughout his life. An Olympic-caliber swimmer, he competed in the Armed Forces Olympics in Sweden during his athletic prime. Intelligent, sharp-witted, and outspoken, Jim was known for his piercing blue eyes, quick humor, and strong opinions—delivered with conviction and grounded in a deeply generous heart.

Jim expressed love through action. He traveled any distance to be present for family, never forgot birthdays or anniversaries, and stayed closely connected through frequent, brief phone calls that always reminded loved ones how much they mattered.

He shared an especially close bond with his younger brother Mike and his sister-in-law Lisa, standing beside them through decades of life, love, and shared experiences. For Mike, Jim was not only a brother but a mentor and second father, shaping many of the passions that would define his life.

A man of many talents, Jim was an accountant, pilot, cosmetologist and professional hairstylist, landscaper, head waiter, philosopher, and prolific writer. He loved motorcycles, scuba diving, karate, off-roading, music, dancing, and fast cars—and he delighted in teaching others what he knew.

Jim was deeply proud of his daughter, Alex, and son-in-law, Clint, and of his grandsons, Maddox and Mason. He was equally proud of his oldest daughter, Erin, and her wonderful family. He shared a loving partnership with Pam, whom he deeply respected and cherished, and he was profoundly grateful for the care and loyalty of Carl. His love also extended warmly to his nieces, Bonnie and Molly, and to his nephew Michael—affectionately known to Jim as “Hammer”.

Jim’s life was not without imperfections, but it was defined by resilience, loyalty, and compassion forged through experience. His influence was lasting, his presence unforgettable, and his love undeniable.

He is survived by his daughters Alex and Erin, grandchildren, brother Mike, sister-in-law Lisa, nieces, nephew, extended family, and the many friends and fellow SEALs whose lives he touched.

We will miss the calls, the jokes, and the commentary—but Jim’s legacy lives on through the people he loved.

Fair winds and following seas, Jim.—thank you for your impact on our lives!

Memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 A.M Thursday, January 15, 2025 from the Chapel of Barrett Funeral Home.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 15 from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M.

To share a memory or leave a condolence with the family, visit barrettfh.com.

Barrett Funeral Home, Cleveland.

To order memorial trees in memory of James Foley, please visit our tree store.

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