James R. Hook

December 14th, 1947 - August 20th, 2023

A graveside service to honor the life of James “Jimmy” Richard Hook will be held at Woodridge Memorial Park on Wednesday, August 30 at 10:00 a.m. James Richard Hook, 75, of Gilbert, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 20, 2023. Jimmy was the son of the late Loyce Richard Hook and Mary Smith Hook of Leesville, SC. He is survived by his wife, Diane; son, Bryan Kelly of Aiken; daughters, Tanya Derrick (Todd) and Tammy Long (Matthew) all of Leesville; grandchildren, Bryson and Paige Kelly, Hannah and Luke Derrick, and Kane and Hunter Long; sisters, Donna Stewart, Bonnie Meetze (Donnie), Adlyne Day (Butch), and Lynn Clamp; brothers, Bobby Hook (Marlette), Russell Hook (Sarah); and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by sisters, Carolyn Cole, Gloria Nausley, Brenda Davis and a brother, Tony Hook. Jimmy proudly served his country on active duty as a Rifleman with the Marine Corps from May 1968 through November 1969, obtaining the rank of Corporal while performing the duty of a Squad Leader which normally was performed by a Staff Sergeant. While on active duty he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/1 bronze star, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/device, Combat Action Ribbon and Rifle Marksmanship Badge. Jimmy later joined the South Carolina Army National Guard (SCARNG) and was a proud member of Co D 122d Engineer Battalion (Cbt) obtaining the rank of Staff Sergeant as a Combat Engineer. While serving in the SCARNG he received numerous awards for his outstanding dedication to his duty along with his unit receiving numerous awards. Jimmy also served his State when the unit was called out to State Active Duty on many occasions. While performing State Active Duty for Hurricane Hugo in September 1989, Jimmy almost gave his life while performing right of way clearing operations. If it wasn’t for him being a strong man he wouldn’t have survived the accident. Jimmy’s combined service to his country was 25 years. Jimmy was an avid outdoorsman who loved to teach others how to hunt and fish. He always enjoyed spending time with his hunting and fishing buddies. In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to the Lexington Medical Center Foundation to the Linda’s Love Fund https://www.lexmed.com/giving/donate/ or Leashes of Valor https://leashesofvalor.org/donate/ . Our family would also like to thank everyone for the visits and kind words during this difficult time. *A brief visitation with the family will be held after the service, at the graveside. *

We Entrusted James Hook's Care To

Woodridge Memorial Park & Funeral Home

[email protected]

Go to Website

(803) 490-7137

When words can't fully express what we want to say, sometimes a small gift can. Visit our Memorial Store for personalized gifts, keepsake jewelry and to plant a memorial tree.

Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor James’s life with a heartfelt message.

John Kneece

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. John W. and Linda Kneece

Published June 10th, 2024

Bobby and Shirley Adams

Keeping y'all in our prayers.

Published June 10th, 2024

Mickey Shealy

🕯️ To the Family of Jimmy, My prayers and thoughts are with you all during this difficult time. May God give each one of you Peace and Comfort during this time and the days ahead. Rest assured that he loved his family and God with all his heart. I shared so many memories with Jimmy over the years. I started deer hunting with him in 1984 and we hunted together through 2020, he called me his partner and I would have to say I was truly his partner when it came to hunting, fishing or whatever he needed help doing or whenever I needed his help as well. He was a true friend and I do miss him terribly already but I have full confidence that he is in Heaven with no more pains, worries or concerns so that gives me comfort even though I miss him so much. I will see him again when my time ends on earth. We were able to fish 2 times together this spring before his health started declining, I have those memories along with so many as so many people do as well. Jimmy touched a lot of people in so many different ways. May he rest in peace.

Published June 10th, 2024

Mike Moyer

🕯️ As a new private in the Batesburg unit in 1985, I knew very few people and can recall even less, years later, but I do remember Jimmy for his smile, friendly disposition and positive vibe. I was with him in Charleston clearing roads and debris when he was injured and nearly killed. His injury really affected everyone, because Jimmy was so well thought of by everyone! May the good Lord give you peace and understanding at this difficult time.

Published June 10th, 2024

Barry and Diane Epps

We only knew Jimmy for a few years, but he became a good friend. Our prayers are with the family. He will be missed. Barry and Diane Epps

Published June 10th, 2024

Tammie Warren Covington

Thinking of you! Tammie Covington

Published June 10th, 2024

Karen I Velasquez

🕯️ Larry and I are sorry for your loss. May you all feel God's love and strength.

Published June 10th, 2024

Customize Cookie Preferences

We use cookies to enhance browsing experience serve personalized ads or content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking 'Accept All', you consent to our use of cookies. Read more