James "Jim" Herman Bullard Jr.

James "Jim" Herman Bullard Jr., age 82, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2024 at Northside Forsyth Hospital, due to an extended illness, in the arms of his loving daughter, Suzanne Russo.

Born on April 10, 1941 in Rockingham, NC, Jim was the cherished son of James Herman and Doretha "Dot" Rainwater Bullard, and best friend to his dear sister, Dorothy "Fay" Bullard. In this small town, he learned the values of hard work, kindness, and devotion to family.

Jim was a true sports enthusiast from a young age. Spending his early years at his Dad's pool hall, he demonstrated exceptional talent, earning him the nickname "Cueball" among his peers. He also excelled in basketball, baseball, tennis, and football, displaying extraordinary talent and dedication in each sport. Following a triumphant high school journey, Jim received an invitation to join the Pittsburgh Pirates in Minor League Baseball. He opted to decline the offer in favor of pursuing his passion for basketball and furthering his education at Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, GA.

While briefly on hiatus from college, Jim was called to serve his country as part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) of the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He achieved the rank of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4) during his 2 years of service. Jim's service in this innovative and highly effective unit reflects his courage, dedication, and commitment to duty.

After later graduating from the University of Georgia with a degree in Physical Education and a Master of Education in Rehabilitation Counseling, Jim pursued a career dedicated to helping others. His passion for sports and fitness led him to become a coach, mentor, and counselor for individuals with mental and physical disabilities. He touched countless lives with his compassion, guidance, and unwavering support. In his later years, Jim enjoyed time spent as a tennis professional, showcasing his skills and expertise on the court.

Outside of his professional and military endeavors, Jim was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished friend to many.  In later years, upon the birth of his daughter, he enjoyed teaching her everything he could about life, love, and sports. He succeeded at everything he ever attempted, with the one exception being to turn his only child into an accomplished athlete! However, during her childhood, he was always available for tea parties, and playing with dolls and ponies. He continued with these traditions with the addition of his granddaughter, Olivia, whose birth completed his family in the most perfect way. He dedicated the majority of his life to those he loved; dancing with his wife, weekly meals with life-long friends, long talks and snuggles with his daughter and granddaughter and always finding a way to live life to the fullest. He was a devout Christian man who read his Bible every single day, watched at least 3 sermons every Sunday and always tried his best to live out his life the way God intended. His church membership was with Free Chapel in Gainesville, GA. He will be remembered for his infectious laughter, kind heart, and zest for life from all those who knew him.

Jim is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Bullard and is survived by his daughter Suzanne Russo and husband Ryan; granddaughter Olivia Goodpasture; brother-in-law Rev. Dr. John Hedgepeth; nephew Todd Hedgepeth and wife Suzanne; nephew Philip Hedgepeth and wife Angie; niece Jennifer Montague and husband Lynwood; great niece Garett Butler and husband Preston; great nephew Parker Hedgepeth; great nephews Ben and Will Hedgepeth; great niece Caorline Pope; great nephew Collin Pope; brother-in-law Randy Shope; brother-in-law Scott Shope and wife Debora; nephews Parker Shope and Chandler Shope; niece Brooke Gordon and husband Greg; nephew Rainer Jordan; niece Allyson Schofield and husband Ryan. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

A visitation and funeral service will be held on April 16th, 2024, at Memorial Park Funeral Home at 2030 Memorial Park Rd., Gainesville, GA, 30504 with military honors to be rendered in recognition of Jim's service to his country. Visitation will be from 10-11 AM, and the funeral service will be at 11 AM.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Road, Gainesville, GA  30504 is in charge of arrangements.

Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com