James Brian Ream

James Brian Ream, known to his family and friends as Jim, passed away on May 12, 2023, in Dothan, AL at Flowers Hospital after a courageous 11-year battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). Born on August 2, 1961, in Orlando, FL, Jim's life was marked by his faith, courage, and adventurous spirit.

Jim was predeceased by his father James H. Ream, mother Margaret N. Ream, and niece Joy Leonard. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 37 years, Tammy Ream of Newton, AL; son Jason Ream of Newton, AL; daughter Rebecca (Joey) Perdue of Magnolia, DE; granddaughters Layla and Sadie Perdue; sister Lisa (Jerry) Lonidier of Pinckard, AL; as well as two sisters-in-law, two brothers-in-law, nine nieces, ten nephews, six grandnieces, and seven grandnephews.

Jim attended Covenant College and The University of Central Florida, where he developed a strong foundation for his future endeavors. On June 7, 1986, he married the love of his life, Tammy, at First Baptist Church in Orlando, FL. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Jim retired from FedEx after a dedicated 30-year career and was a passionate soccer coach and horse trainer. He was actively involved in his community, volunteering with the Alabama Sports Festival and Buddy Walk. For 23 years, Jim was a devoted member of Newton Baptist Church in Newton, AL, where he shared his love for the Lord and served with unwavering faith.

An avid outdoorsman, Jim enjoyed soccer and horse training, as well as hunting, fishing, hiking, and water skiing. His adventurous spirit and love for nature were evident in the many cherished memories made with his family and friends throughout the years.

Jim's faith-filled, courageous, and adventurous spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. He faced his battle with ALS with strength and grace, inspiring those around him. As Helen Keller once said, "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved." Jim's life was a testament to this truth.

Jim's memory will live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, love, and unwavering faith. His family and friends will treasure the time they had with him and remember him as a man who always put others before himself. Rest in peace, Jim. You will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 3:00 PM at Newton Baptist Church. 174 E. King Street, Newton, AL 36352.

In Lieu of Flowers please send donations to Team Gleason Foundation, PO Box 24493 New Orleans, LA 70184, Live Like Lou Foundation 2 South Campus Avenue Oxford, Ohio 45056, and ALS Association-Alabama Chapter 300 Cahaba Park Circle Suite 209 Birmingham, AL 35242.

 

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