James Paul Ketron

James Paul "Kitty Tom" Ketron, 59, Kingsport, went to be with his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ at 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 23, 2010 at Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center following a brief illness.

He was a lifelong resident of Sullivan County and was of the Baptist faith.

Paul loved to compose music and playing and singing with local bands.

He was preceded in death by his parent, Robert and Sallie Ketron; two sisters, Iva Jean Gilreath and Thelma Johnson Ketron; three brothers, Gerald Ketron, Vernon Ketron, and Jerry Ketron; paternal grandparents, Norval and Maude Ketron; and maternal grandparents, Clifton and Bertha Duckworth.

Surviving are three sisters, Ruby Bell and husband J.C., Rita Day and husband Leon, and Terry Childers; five brothers, Bearl Ketron and wife Elsie, David Ketron and wife Lisa, Robert Ketron Jr., Sam Ketron, and Daney Ketron; brother-in-law, Bill Gilreath; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, Kingsport. Services will follow at 8 p.m. Wednesday with Rev. Jackie McCracken officiating.

Graveside services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Thursday at Walnut Chapel Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Eric Bell, Aaron Bell, Sam Childers Jr., Andy Ketron, Travis Ketron, and Gary Messer.

Honorary pallbearers will be Stevie Ketron, Matthew Ketron, Josh Ketron, Justin Ketron, Dakota Ketron, Danny Holdway, Don Holdway, and Doug Smith.

Memorials may be given to the Bloomingdale Volunteer Fire Department, 3017 John B Dennis Hwy, Kingsport, TN 37660; or Walnut Chapel Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Jack Edwards, 13906 East Carters Valley Road, Gate City, VA 24251.