James Marvin Galbreath, 95, of Huntsville, passed away peacefully at home on August 29, 2022. Jim was born October 29, 1926, in Birmingham, AL.
He attended Woodlawn High school and graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in engineering. Jim served in multiple military services to include U.S. Naval Reserve 1945-46, U.S. Army active duty 1946-47, Alabama National Guard Captain (inactive) 1952-61, and U.S. Airforce Captain 1961-62.
After completing his service, he came to Huntsville, Alabama and began work for NASA under Dr. Werner Von Braun. After retirement from NASA, he continued his work in the space program through other program contractors.
Jim was a member of First Baptist Church in Huntsville. He married the love of his life, Barbara Galbreath in 1980. Jim was an active University of Alabama supporter, a member of Tide Pride and attended many Alabama football games with his wife. Jim and Barbara were long time members of Valley Hill County Club and loved playing golf with family and friends. They travelled to many golf courses and loved to dance.
Jim was a significant contributor to lives of many individuals in the city of Huntsville through his many community and civic services. He took the primary role in reactivating Community Watch in the Chaffee area and served as the community watch chairman through 1998.
Jim was preceded in death by his son, James M Galbreath Jr. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Barbara L. Galbreath; stepchildren, Laurie Sammons (Bill), and Chris Cook (Sue); grandchildren, Nikki Blake (Josh), Anna Ford (Forrest) Kate Maydole (Nick), Clay Houk, and Carson Cook; and seven great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be Friday, September 2, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. The funeral service begins at 2:00 p.m. with burial to immediately follow at Maple Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to the Downtown Rescue Mission in Huntsville.
