James E. Oliver, Major, USAF (Retired)
November 12, 1937 – March 29, 2009

James E. Oliver, Major (Retired) USAF. Age 71 of Nashville, TN., a native of Union City, TN., died on March 29, 2009 after a lengthy struggle with Parkinson’s.

He was preceded in death by parents, Elwyn Oliver and Rubye Oliver Armstrong; sister, Margaret May and brother, Elwyn Oliver, Jr. Jim is survived by his wife of 48 years, Mariloyce Wilson Oliver; daughter, Cindy (David) Henry of Knoxville, TN.; son, James E. (Bianca) Oliver, Jr. of San Jose, CA.; and granddaughters, Taylor and Chase Henry. The family is especially grateful to caregiver, Mary Ann Patterson, their “special angel”, for her faithful care for Jim during his last days.

A graduate of the University of Maryland, Jim served 20 years in the USAF, accumulating more than 11,000 hours in fixed-wing and helicopter aircraft. He served in Vietnam as Rescue Crew Commander, flying Jolly Green Giant helicopters. At the time of his retirement in 1977, he was Liaison Officer for the Civil Air Patrol to the Air Force for the State of TN.

After retirement, he worked as an FAA training specialist for 21 years. Jim also served as Chaplain for the American Legion Post 88. A Memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2009 at Donelson Church of Christ, 2706 Old Lebanon Pike, Nashville, by Rob McRay. Visitation will be 5 – 7 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will be Friday, April 3, 2009 at 10 a.m., at the Veterans Cemetery in Pegram, TN. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Guardian Hospice, 800 Crescent Centre Drive, Three Corporate Center, Suite 550, Franklin, TN. 37067.