James Zackary

Obituary Mr. James Zackary was born to the late Lucille Zackary-Davis on February 13, 1935, in McDonough, Georgia, as the only child raised by his late grandparents, George & Julia Zackary. James was educated in the Henry County School System and was affectionally known as “Bunny” to his friends because he ran so fast. James later moved to Atlanta, GA where he began his working career in the trucking and auto repair industry with companies such as Vulcan Materials, Schwarzman Trucking, and Watkins Trucking & Leasing Company. In 2003, James retired from Lease Vehicle Trucking where he was recognized as one of the top Diesel Mechanics in Georgia. James attended Springfield Baptist Church in McDonough, and served as a faithful member until he moved to Atlanta, GA. Mrs. Catherine Zackary was born December 24, 1936, to the late Joe and Hattie Stillwell in Locust Grove, Georgia. She was educated in the Butts County School System and learned at an early age that she had a love of helping others in need. Catherine pursued her interests and began her career as a home healthcare provider where she worked tirelessly for many years. As a self-taught and skilled florist, Catherine was an entrepreneur who made beautiful floral arrangements from her home. In 1998, Catherine retired but still served her community by giving and helping in any way she could. Though she lived in Decatur, GA, she would often go back to McDonough to serve others. Catherine loved to entertain and would celebrate her birthday with family and friends every year. Catherine was proceeded in death by her two brothers and three sisters. Mr. & Mrs. Zackary met in McDonough, GA at age seventeen and married, October 30, 1956, at age nineteen. To this beautiful union, the Lord blessed them with three wonderful sons and a beautiful daughter. During their early years, they both were faithful members of Springfield Baptist Church for many years. For over 25 years, James and Catherine lived in the Clanton Terrace Community in Decatur, GA. On Saturday nights, they would watch the late Reverend R.L. White broadcast together. On Sundays, they would watch the Reggie Gay gospel show and have breakfast at Krystal’s faithfully. James’ favorite past time was watching the Atlanta Braves and Catherine’s favorite past time was thrifting. They loved to entertain in their home, and travel together with their family, friends, and children from the neighborhood. James was a good instructor when it came to mechanics. He taught his sons and grandsons how to repair their vehicles by giving them verbal instructions and watching them follow his directives. Catherine loved being a homemaker, cooking and caring for her children and grandchildren. Until their health began to fail, James and Catherine hosted an annual birthday celebration for all of their children, grandchildren, family members and their friends. Mr. James & Mrs. Catherine Zackary leave to cherish their memory and continue their legacy, one daughter: Diane (Tommy) Wilkerson, three sons: Willie J. (Ula) Zackary, Herman (Darlene) Zackary, Antowyn (Lacheryl) Zackary, 17 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; 4 Great-Great Grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephew, cousins, other relatives and best friends George Dunham, Gotell Felton, Willie Varner, and Jeanette Weems.

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James Zackary

February 13, 1936 - October 20, 2023