James Martin Chatfield, 74, of Huntsville, passed away Thursday. He entered active duty with the U.S. Army in 1962, and during his 27-year career served two stints as program manager for theater missile defense. He was also a staff member in the Department of the Army and the Office of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Jim served tours of duty in Germany, Vietnam and Korea. After retiring from active duty as a Colonel in 1988, Jim joined the Alabama State Defense Force, a component of the Alabama Army National Guard. He was promoted to Brigadier General and served as the Commander of its 1st Brigade before retiring in 2002.
A strong believer in fraternal and civic organizations, Jim served proudly as a member of the Masons, Sigma Chi Fraternity (recognized as a Significant Sig), U.S. Power Squadron, and North Alabama Wood Turners Association. Jim also served on the board of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Survivors include wife: Patti Chatfield; sons, Jim Chatfield (Kris) and Joe Chatfield (Diane); grandchildren, Meghan, Joshua, Jordan, Joel, Jameson, Caleb, Jacob, Rebekah, and Katherine; brothers, David Chatfield (Cheryl) and John Chatfield (Carrie); sister, Sue Afman (John); and uncle, Robert Thayer.
A memorial service will be at 12:00 noon Monday at Laughlin Service Funeral Home Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors Project, USO, Homes for Troops, Alzheimer’s Association or your favorite charity.
