Jimmy D Fretwell, 80, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 29, 2026. Born on April 8, 1945, in Russellville, Jimmy spent his life enjoying family, friends, and music.
A 1963 graduate of Russellville High School, Jimmy worked his entire career at Carter Auto Parts but also preached for many years when his girls were young and had a comprehensive knowledge of the Bible. A man of many talents, Jimmy taught himself to play the guitar at the age of fourteen. Though he never learned to read music, his natural ability and love for country music led him to sing with two different bands. One of his proud musical memories included performing on The Country Boy Eddie Show. Jimmy never met a stranger and loved entertaining others, whether through music, conversation, or his Donald Duck impression that brought joy to all who heard it.
When his wife Pam’s job took them to Alabaster, Alabama, Jimmy discovered new passions. He became a master gardener, meticulously designing and maintaining a beautiful yard that reflected his love of flowers. During that time, he also became a beekeeper and took great joy in sharing the honey he harvested with friends and family.
He was preceded in death by his parents WD and Allene Fretwell and his sisters Diane Wilson and Elaine Lydic.
He is survived by his faithful wife of 34 years, Pamela Hammack Fretwell and his devoted children Renee Vandiver (Marty), Russellville, Susan Garner (Eric), Fulton, Mississippi, Kesli Smith (Rodney), Russellville, and Mitch Moore, Russellville. He was a proud grandfather to Nick Vandiver, Jamie Lane, Kendra Sampson, Dylan Smith, Erica Gaskin, Ty Garner, Lauren Ray, Karlie Moore, and Kara Moore and also adored his great-grandchildren, Aleya Lane, Jase Lane, Lexi Morgan, Lily Tittle, Navy Sampson, Rowan Ray, Mazie Vandiver, Mac Vandiver, Rylie Sampson, Bentley Gaskin, Nash Oakes, Miles Oakes, Lyla Gaskin, and Parks Garner. He also leaves behind sister Becky Gober and a host of nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers are Don Baker, Howard Prater, Larry Richey, Mike Wilson, Kevin Wilson, and Nick Vandiver. Honorary pall bearers are Jase Lane and Mac Vandiver.
The family would also like to give a special thanks to his caregiver, Andrea, and North Alabama Hospice workers Taylor, Michelle, and Alan.
Though Jimmy loved flowers during his life, he requested that no flowers be sent for his funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to St. Jude’s.
The visitation for his friends and family will be 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Sunday, February 01, 2026, at Spry Memorial Chapel. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Bro. Marty Vandiver speaking at the service. His entombment will be at Franklin Memory Mausoleum.
Spry Memorial Chapel assisted the family. To give private condolences, please visit our website at www.sprymemorialchapel.com.
