James L. Blaylock

James L. “Jim” Blaylock, age 82 of Tipton passed away at 1:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 14, 2013. He was cared for by the loving and attentive staff of Miller’s Merry Manor, Tipton since August 2012. Jim was born in Boonsville, Mississippi to the late Arthur Blaylock and Addie (Cooper) Blaylock on January 30, 1931.

Jim’s childhood years were spent with his family in various states throughout the south. At an early age, Jim enlisted into the U.S. Army. This journey would take him throughout the world as he gave the best of himself to this commitment. Even though Jim was reserved about this time of his life, he stood proud when he mentioned being a “First Class Army Ranger”. Jim remained faithful to this chapter in his life.

Upon return from his military duties, Jim settled into Flint, Michigan for a few years. During this time, he loved the jazz clubs, where he could dance and enjoy the music. Friends were abundant and life was full as he celebrated his return from his worldly travels.

Within a few short years, Jim was drawn to Tipton, to be with his parents. His parents became his focus and mission in life. Daily visits with his mother were always a special occasion as they would always find something to share with laughter.

Tipton was where Jim actually planted his roots and he became ingrained in this community. He had many lifelong friends. Jim retired in 1995, after providing 29 years of dedicated work for the City of Tipton Utilities. Often, he would be seen in the city backhoe working to repair water lines. Many will recall the smile and wave he would offer as onlookers would pass by the work site.

Jim quickly connected himself with the Tipton City Police where he would continue to display his skill and knowledge of law enforcement. Always protecting, always looking out for others safety. Sometimes he would come across as firm, but then he would smile and express his point. Jim served on this team of police officers with a passion and joy. He retired from the City of Tipton Police Dept in 1993 after 14 years of loyal and devoted service. He was also a 30 year member of the F.O.P. in Tipton. March 25, 1993 was proclaimed as “Jim Blaylock Day” by the Mayor of Tipton.

Jim enjoyed anything connected to racing. Many years were spent at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway as he would follow the races. He became acquainted with many of the race car drivers and shared the stories. For several years, Jim owned Corvette cars. He had a rainbow of colors but his most favorite was the yellow one.

Jim was also known as the “Cowboy” in Tipton. He would say this was from his brief life in Texas. His flair for western clothing, hats and boots were his signature. He didn’t think he had on his best if he wasn’t wearing the boots.

Jim is survived by four brothers, James J. "Junior" Blaylock and wife Edna, Ohio, Robert Blaylock and wife Cona, Florida, Harold Blaylock and wife Sheila, Ohio, Joe Blaylock and wife Bonnie, Alabama; two sisters Betty Ziegler and husband Ken, Tipton, Judy Jones and husband Ron, Florida. He also leaves behind a lot of loving friends and neighbors. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Doris Ferguson, and a brother, Gary Blaylock.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 18, at Young-Nichols Funeral Home in Tipton. Burial will follow in Brookside Cemetery, Windfall with Military Honors. Visitation will be from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Tipton F.O.P. through the funeral home.