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James Workman Gannaway, age 98, of Lawton, Oklahoma, passed away on May 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and love that touched the lives of many.
He was born on September 15, 1927, in Southside, Tennessee, to the late Owen Gannaway and Mina Workman Gannaway. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Gannaway, married June 6, 1951 and were married for 64 years; his siblings, William, Richard, Charles, and Lucy; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Manie and Roland Phipps. He is survived by his daughter, Melissa Anderson, and her husband, Gregg; his grandchildren, Brenton Whitley and Christopher Whitley; and his great-grandchildren, Troyce Whitley, Christopher Whitley, Jullian Le his sister-in-law Judy Haskins and many nieces and nephews.
James spent his life devoted to others through his work in education and his many acts of service. He earned his bachelor’s degree and went on to serve as a teacher, principal, and director of Head Start, where he helped guide and encourage countless children and families. He approached each role with patience, wisdom, and a steady commitment to doing what was right. His influence reached far beyond the classroom, as he became a trusted leader and a respected presence in every community he served.
He also served his country in the Air Force during World War II, a chapter of his life that reflected the courage and dedication that would continue to define him in the years that followed. In his community, he gave his time and heart to Meals on Wheels in Clarksville, Tennessee, and he remained active in civic and fraternal life as a Mason and as a precinct worker in voting efforts. He believed in helping others, in standing for what mattered, and in being dependable in both word and deed.
To his family and friends, he was lovingly known as Papa Jim, a name that carried warmth, respect, and affection. He loved his family deeply, cherished his friends, and devoted his life to serving God. Those who knew him will remember him as a faith-filled, loving, and selfless man whose life was marked by kindness, humility, and quiet strength. His presence brought comfort, his words brought encouragement, and his example will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know him.
James lived a long and meaningful life, and he faced each season with grace and steadfast faith. His life reflected the truth of the words by Mother Teresa: “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” He did exactly that throughout his life, serving in ways both seen and unseen, always with a generous spirit and a servant’s heart.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. Though his earthly journey has ended, the impact of his life remains in the hearts of those he loved and served. His family takes comfort in knowing that his faith was strong, his love was enduring, and his life was well lived.
Memorial service will be held in his honor 1:00 p.m., Thursday, May 28, 2026 in the Stoney Huddleston Memorial Chapel, Whinery-Huddleston Funeral Service. Burial will follow in Clarksville, TN at a later date.
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