James Austin “Jamie” Rector Jr., 54, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on January 30, 2026, after bravely facing critical illness for the last three months.
Jamie was born on February 28, 1971, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He spent his life rooted in the Chattanooga area, surrounded by family, friends, and the community he knew so well.
Jamie was known for his respectful nature, easy smile, and the way he could “aggravate” those he cared about just enough to make them laugh. He had a lifelong love for Alabama football, and game days were something he truly looked forward to.
Above all else, Jamie was a devoted father to his son, Ethan Rector, whom he loved deeply and was immensely proud of. He is also survived by his mother, Angela Rector of Chattanooga, TN; his father Austin (Keely) Rector of Chattanooga, TN; his brother, Jimmy Rector of Nashville; his sisters, Lori (Rob) Gass of Chickamauga, Georgia and Susan Rector of Chattanooga, TN; his nephews, Bowden and Garrett Gass; and his aunt, Martha Tiffin; and many other close friends and family members who will miss him dearly.
Jamie was a member of Tiftonia Baptist Church, where his presence and quiet kindness were well known.
A visitation will be held on February 3, 2026, at Tiftonia Baptist Church, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the funeral service following at 1:00 p.m. with Bro. Mark Brandon and Bro. Garrett Reagan officiating. Burial will take place at Tennessee Georgia Memorial Park in Rossville, GA.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bus Ministry of Tiftonia Baptist Church.
Jamie will be remembered for his kind heart and the easy smile that made others feel at home. His memory will live on in the lives of all who loved him.
The family extends special thanks to Dr. Jesse Tucker, and the dedicated staff of the CVICU, MICU, and IMCU at Memorial Hospital, as well as Vanderbilt Hospital, for the compassionate care shown to Jamie.
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