James Franklin Shields

Chief Warrant Officer (CWO4) James Franklin Shields, 90, a resident of Goodlettsville, TN, passed away Thursday, April 8, 2021, at a medical facility in Gallatin, TN.  He served with the 3d Mission Battalion, 79th Artillery for 25 years active duty and then served out the rest of his military career with the 3397th U.S. Army Reserve Garrison in Chattanooga, Tennessee.  He served in combat during the Korean Conflict and also served as an ROTC instructor at Chattanooga Central High School for many years.  He was an active member for many years at the American Legion Blair Post 95 in Chattanooga.  He was a wonderful gardener, a beekeeper, and a self-taught carpenter.  He had many passions in life, but none more important than his family.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Margie Ann Shields; and son, James (Jeff) F. Shields, Jr.

He is survived by his two daughters, Melanie Holt and husband Darwin of Goodlettsville, and Melissa Foster and husband Mark of Gallatin; five grandchildren, Marcie Nitsch, Meagan Griffith, Jacob Brown, Abby Brown, and Emma Brown; two great-grandchildren, Hudson Nitsch and Maddox Nitsch; and several nieces, nephews and many friends also survive.

A graveside service celebrating his life will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, April 12, 2021 at Tyner Cemetery, 2934 Hickory Valley Road, Chattanooga, TN, with the Reverend Gary Roop officiating.  Military honors, a white dove release ceremony, and the playing of bagpipes will conclude the service.

We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Shields family guestbook at www.ralphbuckner.com.

Ralph Buckner Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.