James Walker Proffitt, Sr.
1933-2023
In Loving Memory of James Walker Proffitt, Senior.
James “Jim” Proffitt, a dedicated Army veteran, a double Purple Heart and triple Cluster recipient, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on July 28th, 2023. He was born on January 8th, 1933 into the Proffitt Family.
Jim served his country with unwavering bravery and commitment, enlisting in the United States Army at a young age. He valiantly served during the Korean War, displaying remarkable courage and dedication to his fellow soldiers. During his tour of duty, he was wounded in action and awarded two prestigious Purple Hearts and three clusters for his selfless acts and sacrifice.
After serving honorably for several years, Jim started his adult civilian life in Dayton, Ohio, where he continued to make a positive impact on his community. This is where he met and married his beloved Shirrell Proffitt and created a family of his own, moving later to Northern Virginia and then, when retiring from the government, into Berkeley Springs, W.Va.
Beyond his military and professional achievements, Jim was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He cherished his family above all else and instilled in them the values of love and resilience. He was known for his warm smile, witty humor, genuine kindness and of course, his nicknames for those surrounding him, adding to the daily joy he influenced. He touched the hearts of everyone he encountered.
In his spare time, Jim enjoyed tending to his garden, caring for local deer and kittens, greeting his grandchildren and great grandchildren with care and compassion. In addition to holding the profound role of Grandfather, Jim Proffitt also held the role of Commander with the American Legion, Commander of the Honor Guard for several years and attended many events locally in Berkeley Springs, W.Va., sharing space and time among his fellow veterans which he valued so much.
James “Jim” Proffitt is survived by his loving wife of 70+ years, Shirrell Proffitt; his sister Betty Elliott, his children, Cathy Swanigan, Judy Proffitt and James Proffitt, Jr; seven grandchildren including many loving in-laws and 12 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in his passing by his son Richard Proffitt, his father Albert Proffitt and mother Myrtle Spohn.
A funeral service to honor James “Jim” Proffitt’s life and service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, August 4, 2023 at Helsley-Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 95 Union Street, Berkeley Springs, W.Va., with Pastor Jeff Hawbaker officiating. Burial with graveside military honors provided by the Tri-State Honor Guard will be in Spohrs Crossroads Cemetery. Following the funeral and committal services, there will be a time of fellowship and refreshments at the Alderton-Dawson American Legion Post #60, 527 N. Washington Street, Berkeley Springs, W.Va.
James “Jim” Proffitt, Sr. will forever remain in our hearts, and his legacy of bravery, love, and resilience will continue to inspire generations to come.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.helsleyjohnsonfh.com.
