James "Jim" Whaley

James “Jim” Whaley, age 77, of Wartburg, Tennessee, passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

Born in Blount County, TN on October 23, 1948, Jim was a proud graduate of Young High School where he played football and developed lifelong friends. He went on to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in forestry from the University of Tennessee and moved to McMinnville,TN, to pursue a career in the nursery industry. Later, he relocated to Wartburg to run Jansch Nursery, which he did until his passing. Morgan County welcomed him as one of their own and he became increasingly involved in the agriculture community and served as a member of several boards and local institutions. Jim was a faithful member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Wartburg.

He was a man who valued family, friendship, and community. He was known for his steady presence, fun-loving personality, kind heart, and willingness to help others. Jim lived a life marked by hard work, humor, and genuine care for those around him.

Jim is survived by his children Cindy Dockins (Kenny) and Matt Whaley (Cassy); his sisters Vicki Burnette (Tommy), Judy Baccari, and Pam Proffit; grandchildren Fisher and Chloe Dockins. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Becky Jansch; mother Juanita Teffeteller Whaley Welch (Curtis), and father Carroll Reece Whaley.

The family will receive friends Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Schubert Funeral Home from 4:00–6:00 p.m., with the funeral to follow at 6:00 p.m., Pastor David Graves officiating. Interment will follow in Wartburg City Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow at Jansch & Whaley Nursery.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to MoCo Mutts, the American Cancer Society, or Sacred Ground Hospice House.

Jim’s life was a blessing to many, and his memory will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Schubert Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of James “Jim” Whaley.