Jimmie Porter was born in Liberty, Indiana. As a young teen, his family moved to Billingsville, Indiana. He was the final surviving member of the 1944 graduating class of College Corner Union High School in Ohio, just down the road from his hometown.
Growing up, Jimmie enjoyed athletics—especially baseball, softball, and basketball—and loved being outdoors and working on the family farm.
After graduation, Jimmie was drafted into the U.S. Army as an infantryman. He served from October 1944 to August 1946, guarding German prisoners in Belgium, before returning home to help on the farm. In September 1948, when his farming skills were no longer needed, he re-enlisted in the Army as a helicopter crew chief. During this second enlistment, Jimmie was again stationed in Germany, where he met and married a young German woman named Babette. Together, they had a son, Edward.
Throughout his career, Jimmie and his family were stationed at several U.S. posts during the Korean War, and he later completed a tour in Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he continued his service until his retirement in May 1969 from Fort Eustis Army Post in Newport News, Virginia.
Following his military retirement, Jimmie worked for the City of Newport News in the Water Treatment Plant, where he earned a second retirement.
While living in Newport News, Jimmie became well-known as an avid golfer—a passion he continued into his 97th year. He was recognized by the Fort Eustis Commander as the oldest and longest-standing member of the Fort Eustis Pines Golf Course. Out of deep loyalty to the Army and his fellow golfers, Jimmie maintained his membership until the end of his life.
Jimmie was known for his kindness and even temper wherever he went. He was the very definition of a “gentleman” and served as a shining example of what has been called “the Greatest Generation.” He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, especially by his best friend and son, Edward.
Jimmie was preceded in death by his parents, James and Malissie; his sister, Bonnie (Russell) Rhodes; his brothers, David (JoeAnn Porter Stamper) and Robert (Julia); and his beloved wife, Babette (Ellie). He is survived by his son, Edward, and daughter-in-law, Pamela; his granddaughters, Nicole (William) Graziano and Michelle Miles; and numerous great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov 11, at Weymouth Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675.
