James “Jim” Lee Bohanan

James “Jim” Lee Bohanan, 77, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, December 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, after a two-year battle with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Raised in Greenwood, IN, Jim’s life journey took him to many places, including Rockaway, NJ; Stroudsburg, PA; the Florida Keys—a place he cherished deeply—and ultimately, Gainesville, GA.

Jim was born on May 13, 1947, to James Bohanan and Evelyn Skaggs Bohanan Ostheimer. He attended Southport High School and was a proud member of the 1964 State Champion wrestling team. After graduating in 1965, Jim joined the National Guard and became part of the historic Company D, 151st Airborne Rangers, which was deployed to Vietnam. Recognized as the best-trained unit of its time by the Infantry School, Company D was one of only eight Army National Guard units deployed and the sole ground maneuver unit. Renowned for its service, the company earned more decorations than any other infantry unit over a one-year period in Vietnam. Among Jim’s many accolades, he was most notably awarded the Silver Star for his valor in combat.

After returning from Vietnam, Jim expanded his military career by learning to pilot helicopters, including the Cobra and Huey. He served in the National Guard until the mid-1990s.

Jim pursued his passion for aviation at Purdue University, earning a Bachelor of Science in 1976. Over the years, Jim built a distinguished career in aviation, flying in various roles before retiring as a Captain with American Airlines on the Boeing 757 and 767. It was during his time with American Airlines that he met the love of his life, Pavon Smallwood Bohanan.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Pavon; his sons, Zac (Eva) Bohanan and Max Bohanan; his daughter, Mattie Bohanan; and his grandson, Theo Bohanan.

Jim’s life was marked by his adventurous spirit and diverse passions, which included travel, hunting, motorcycles, aviation, chess, history, and mountaineering. He was immensely proud of his family and took great joy in celebrating his children’s accomplishments, sharing them proudly with anyone he met.

Jim will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Jim’s favorite charity Tunnels to Towers Foundation.

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at littledavenport.com

Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Highway, SW, Gainesville, Georgia 30501 is in charge of arrangements.