Obituary of James Rickey Waldroup

JAMES (JAMIE) RICKEY WALDROUP (February 13, 1964 -- November 9, 2022) Jamie Waldroup, age 58, passed away on November 9, 2022 following an extended period of declining health. A native of Swain County, he was the son of the late George C. Waldroup and Glenna Burns Waldroup. He is predeceased by his wife, Kathy Lackey Evans; brothers Steve Waldroup and Larry Waldroup; and maternal grandmother, Laura Burns. He is described as a kind, gentle, funny, big-hearted man that loved his simple life. Although he could have been bitter about his debilitating health, he never complained about it and played the hand life dealt him with a quiet, calm spirit. He enjoyed his family and many friends, particularly his “best friend” Ryleigh. He especially thrilled Ryleigh, Hunter and Levi with amazing around the world stories. Jamie was a gifted artist and prior to his chronic illness, he enjoyed masonry work, hunting and fishing. Jamie was a member of Alarka Church of God. He loved to hear Betty Barnes sing and play piano. He is survived by sons: Brandon Burdette (Norma), Chandler Smith, Cody Waldroup, Tony DeSimone and Josh Davis; one brother, Jody Waldroup (Becky); sisters: Sarah B. Crisp (Lewis), Darlene Sawyer, Diane Jones, and Laura Griffin (Flint), Tammy Frady (Timothy); several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by a special friend, Jeff Fouts. Services will be held on Sunday, November 13, 2022 at 2:00 pm in the Crisp Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. Kenneth Braswell will officiate. Burial will be in the Watkins Cemetery. Pallbearers will be: Brandon Burdette, Claude Welch, Carl Simonds, Aaron Jones, Jason Sawyer and Shannon Lackey. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 pm prior to the service.