James Angus “Jim” McRacken, Sr. of Statesville, NC passed away on November 19, 2022. He was born November 11, 1939, in Red Springs, NC to Kathryne McPhaul McRacken and Robert Bernice McRacken.
Preceding him in rest are his parents; his brother Robert E. “Gene” McRacken; daughter-in-law Anita C. McRacken; and he is now reunited with his loving wife of almost 58 years, Sandra Fleming McRacken. Survivors include his twin sister Janet; older brother William; sons James A. McRacken, Jr. (Tina) of Denver and Mark McRacken of Mooresville; daughter Candice McRacken Britt (Matthew) of Rutland, VT; grandchildren Brianna, Andrew, Molly, Megan and Caroline; and many nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends.
Jim loved playing defense on his HS football team, and he brought that love into cheering on his sons’ teams, coaching, and working on the South Iredell Vikings’ chain crew for many years. While he briefly attended NC State University after high school, he was a life-long fan of UNC Tar Heel sports. He and Sandy volunteered for many PGA Tour events, and he was an avid golfer himself. He happily rooted for his Atlanta Braves towards another World Series ring in 2021, and not always so happily rooted for the Carolina Panthers.
Jim could be both strong and goofy. He was a warm-hearted and loving father and “Granddaddy” - far more of a hugger than a handshaker. He could tell you an entire story with only a wink. Amongst his favorite times was the year he and Sandy spent in Germany while he was stationed there serving in the US Army. They continued to entertain family and friends with stories from their European adventures throughout the many decades that followed.
In addition to a career which took him in many directions, from working as a land surveyor for the state, to O.W. Slane Glass Company, to owning his own landscaping business and beyond, he planted rows of tomatoes, corn and beans each year and loved to enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of his labor. He appreciated a good tomato sandwich, not to mention pimento cheese and peanut butter (perhaps even at the same time depending on who you ask). He insisted on actual silverware at the table, even for takeout food. Some things were just meant to be done the right way.
Jim and Sandy were devoted members of New Perth ARP Church in Troutman, NC. A Celebration of Life will be held in Jim’s memory after the holidays.
Online condolences may be made to the family at
www.nicholsonfunerals.com
.