James Ollie Poulnot

James “Jim” Ollie Poulnot passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2015 at his residence in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 86.

He was born in Watkinsville, Georgia on March 18, 1929 and was the oldest of four children.  He grew up on his parents’ farm working with his father and during that time, he realized that he wanted to do something more with his life.

After, graduating from Oconee County High School, he attended the University of Georgia and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration in 1952. While attending the University of Georgia, he joined the ROTC and graduated with the rank of Captain.

After graduation, he decided to serve his country full time and joined the Army in 1952.  During his 28 years of  service, he had tours in the Korean War, in Germany, two tours during the Vietnam War, and in Turkey.

He retired in 1980 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.  He was a highly decorated officer and a strong leader.

After retiring from the Army, he attended Troy University Dothan and graduated with a Bachelor of  Science degree in 1982.  He opened B&J Income Tax Service and worked in that capacity until his  second retirement.

He is preceded in death by his parents Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Poulnot; a brother, Harold Poulnot; and a son,  Christopher Poulnot.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Elizabeth M. Poulnot; a daughter and son-in-law, Pam and  Rick Smith; a daughter and son-in-law, Lynn and Gary Hall; grandchildren, Shanna John Maxwell,  Lyndsey Clark, Jonathan Chancy Smith, Tanner Clark, Christopher Poulnot, and Matthew Poulnot; nine  great-grandchildren; sisters, Helen Bay Powell, and Nell Burger; several much loved  nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, September 28, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, 901 Montezuma Ave., Dothan, Alabama.  Visitation will be held  at the church one hour prior to the memorial service.  Immediately following the  memorial service, a full military service will be held at Sunset Memorial Park Funeral  Home, 1700 Barrington Road, Midland City, Alabama.

The family wishes to thank all of the caregivers and Covenant Hospice for their love and care during their time of need, especially Joyce Frazier, Tammy Pledger, Pam Marsh, Cierra Bighems, and Bridgette Johnson, R.N..