James E. Worthey, 77, of Hot Springs, died Saturday, Saturday, February 23, 2019. James was born November 18, 1941, in Hot Springs to the late James A. and Mary Lou (Hickerson) Worthey.
After graduating Hot Springs High School in 1959, James enlisted in the United States Army where he served as a Paratrooper attached to the 82ndAirborne. After his service, he trained as a marine mechanic, a skill he practiced for many years. He married Elizabeth Coutlee in 1964 just prior to moving to New Orleans, LA where he was employed at Edgewater Marine. Concurrently, he pursued a successful hobby as a competitive hydroplane boat racer, an activity that afforded travel and friendships throughout the southeast United States.
After this, he chose to relocate his family to Dallas, Texas. He continued his career as a marine mechanic, parlaying his skills as a Technical and Continuing Education instructor. During this time, he participated in areas of personal watercraft innovation and a private entrepreneurial venture. James retired to Hot Springs with his wife, who has preceded him.
Mr. Worthey is survived by his brother, David L. Worthey and spouse Lisa of Piedmont, SC; his children, Katherine Duncan and her spouse Derek, of De Berry, TX; Rebecca Worthey-Bartels and Keith Wilcox, of Liberty Hill, TX; and David Worthey and spouse Melissa of Springville, TN; two grand children and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, Hot Springs, AR. Saturday, March 2nd, 1:00 PM with a brief reception to follow. The family request that the value of all memorial or support gifts be given in his name to local charities or scholarship funds.
Cremation arrangements are under the trusted direction of A Natural State Funeral Service, 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas, 72076. 501-982-3400.
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