Windle, Sr., James William

Surrounded by his adoring family and devoted wife of 67 years, Mr. James William Windle, Sr., died at home peacefully on Saturday, September 3, 2022.

Known affectionately as Billy, Uncle Butch, Daddy, Granddaddy Butch, and Pop, Mr. Windle was the epitome of kindness and goodness. He blessed all who knew him with patient listening, gentle service, and unconditional love. His warm brown eyes let you know he was always in your corner. He healed hearts with a softly whispered “Hey, Honey,” and a strong, warm hug.

Born in Pulaski County, Virginia, on November 16, 1934, Billy’s gentle, unselfish nature was evident early when he often carried his older brother Bobby, who had been stricken with polio, on his back into the woods so that Bobby could hunt. Family was always most important to Billy, and he worked hard all his adult life to provide for them.

Billy married his lifelong love, Jenny Lou Brown, in 1955. They enjoyed a lifetime of devotion, family love, and travel, especially to local lakes and Myrtle Beach, SC. For many years, they boarded their Honda Goldwing and relished exploring America by motorcycle. Their home was always a haven of good food, warm embraces, and unstinting support.

During his teens, Mr. Windle worked with his father at Midway Shell Service Station. After his marriage, he worked at Mayberry Buick in Pulaski and then Klopman Mills in Dublin. In the late 70’s, he moved to Lynchburg where he worked at Wexco Corporation until retirement.

Mr. Windle was lovingly attended in his last months of illness by his wife, Jenny Lou Windle and his son, David, who moved to Lynchburg from Roanoke to be his father’s arms, legs, nurse, chef, and chauffeur. The family was unselfishly assisted by hospice staff and other caregivers.

Surviving to miss their beloved Pop are his wife, Jenny Lou and son, David Windle of the home, son, Jimmy Windle and wife, Gwen of Rustburg, Virginia, grandsons, Jamie Windle and Jason Windle of Lynchburg, great grandchildren, Diamond and Michael Windle, special niece, Jo Ella Holman, and an extended family who adored Uncle Butch.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Robert Windle and Frances Quesenberry Windle, his brother, Bobby Windle, and his beloved daughter, Sheila Louanne Windle.

Family visitation will be held Wednesday, September 7, 2022from 6 to 8 p.m. at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, located at 220 Breezewood Drive, with the funeral being held on Thursday, September 8, 2022 at 1p.m. at the funeral home. The burial will follow at Fort Hill Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends at other times at the family home. Those wishing to honor Mr. Windle are asked to perform a quiet act of kindness as Pop would have done or to make a donation in his memory to a charity of their choice.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family. To send condolences, please visit tharpfuneralhome.com.