James Lamar Hiett, 82, of Geraldine, passed away Peacefully at his home surrounded by family on October 13th.
Lamar was born on July 31, 1943, to James Clarence and Ida Kate Hiett, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Melanie Gail Conner Hiett; his daughter, Melanie Lynn Hiett Bennett; and his infant son, Christopher Hiett.
Melanie Lynn Hiett Bennett passed on October 25, 2005. She was married to Paul Bennett, who has remained a devoted part of the Hiett family. Paul now shares his life with Teresa and together they find great joy in Teresa’s granddaughter, Sofia.
Lamar is survived by his children: Keith Lamar (Debbie) Hiett, James Franklin Hiett, and Sherrie (Danielle) Hiett; his grandchildren: Chris (Katy) Hiett, Nicole Hiett, Lindsey Hiett, Will Hiett, and Cody (Savannah) Bennett; and his great-grandchildren: Conner, Camden, Claire, Lucie, and Lucas. He is also survived by his sisters, Sheila Powell (and her daughters Teresa Shaver and Lisa Powell) and Loretta Pannell (and her sons Rodney and Jason Pannell).
For 43 years, Lamar worked in Huntsville, first as the Electrical Manufacturing Supervisor for Chrysler Military Electronics Division and later retiring as Subject Matter Expert for the DRS Operations Division. He Faithfully commuted an hour each way, often farming in the evenings, all while raising four children. His work ethic, determination, and quiet strength left a lasting example for his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Lamar was a man of integrity, a man of his word, and Faithful to the core. He had a quiet strength that never sought the spotlight, yet he was the strongest man his family knew. Soft spoken but loud in action, Lamar lived out his values every single day — with humility, consistency, and Love.
He Loved Auburn football and rarely missed the chance to yell “War Eagle” alongside his wife. He was a fierce competitor in his workplace’s “Goofy Golfer League” and enjoyed many rounds of golf with his sons and friends. He Loved cars, could fix anything, and had a special gift for making broken things run again.
Above all, he was a devoted husband, a Loving father and grandfather, a Faithful church member, and a man who lived his life with steadfast devotion to those he held dear.
Lamar’s family takes comfort in knowing he is reunited with his beloved Gail, and that his life was one of deep Love, unwavering Faith, and an unshakable legacy of character.
A visitation and celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, October 16th at Hope Methodist Church of Albertville, with burial to follow at Geraldine Cemetery. Visitation is from 11:00-1:00 and the Celebration of Life begins at 1:00. Rev. Robin Scott, Cody Bennett and Richie Thomas will officiate his service. Pallbearers will be Chris Hiett, Will Hiett, Cody Bennett, Richie Thomas, Richard Campbell and Doug Shaver.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shepherd’s Cove Hospice.
Arrangements entrusted to Albertville Memorial Chapel.
