James David Shockley, 76, of Huntsville, died peacefully at his home with his loving family at his side on October 6, 2021. He was the beloved husband of Debra Williams Shockley and blessed father of seven wonderful children.
James, known by friends and family as Jimmy, was a lifelong Huntsville resident and businessman. He successfully managed his family’s hotel, Sands Motor Hotel of Huntsville, for a number of years and upon its purchase, he partnered and operated, along with his wife, Debra, Gates Cleaners of Madison and Huntsville, Alabama for 20 years until his retirement in 2009.
After many years of dedicated work, Jimmy enjoyed special time with his family and his favorite dog named Sting, among many other loving dogs. Jimmy had many close and lifelong friendships, never met a stranger and enjoyed joking and bringing a smile to everyone. All who knew him will always be touched by his generous and caring spirit and the love he always carried for everyone he knew.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, J.D. Shockley and Muriel Fox Shockley of Huntsville, AL, and his sister, Gaye Shockley Haynes. He is survived, in addition to his loving and devoted, wife, Debra, his sons, Jeff Shockley (Tommy Simmel) of Euless, Texas, Jason Shockley of Dallas, Texas, Morris Locke (DeLisa) of Madison, AL, Justin Shockley of Denver, Colorado, and Ron Williams of Athens, AL; his daughters, Jennifer Shockley Hames (Paul) of Dallas, Texas, and Paula Williams Beck (Martin) of Athens, AL; nine amazing grandchildren, Harrison Hames, Lilyann Hames, Kaitlyn Word (Jacob) Kassidy Locke, Kamryn Locke, Aiden Shockley, Bre Williams, Connor Beck, and Baylor Beck; sisters, Shirley Shockley Reed and Debbie Shockley Corum (Van); and many nephews and nieces.
Visitation will be from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 10th, at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. The funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. Monday, Oct. 11th, at the funeral home chapel. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery.
