George James Wise

George James Wise, resident of Waynesboro for many years, passed away Sunday, April 16, 2023 at the age of 95.  He was born June 17, 1927 in Rockford, IL to Fred E. Wise and Retha V. Bissell Wise. He was preceded in death by his parents and by a sister, Edna Wise DeGaish and a step-son, David Copous.  He is survived by his wife Eva Mae Stooksberry Wise of Waynesboro, his sister Golda Jo Wise-Davis of Lake Charles, LA, his brothers Russell Wise (Wendy) of Dallas, TX and Don Wise (Diane) of North Little Rock, AR, and step-son Robert Copous (Faye) of Albertville, AL.  He is also survived by several nieces and nephews and step-grandchildren. 

Jimmy joined the Merchant Marines during World War II, in 1945. After spending 22 years in the Merchant Marines, he retired and later worked for and retired from both Goodyear and the Coca-Cola Co.   He and Eva married in Houston on March 6, 1971. In retirement, they moved to Waynesboro.   

Jimmy and Eva both loved fishing and riding his motorcycle.  They even took some long trips on the motorcycle, and shorter jaunts around Texas on the week-ends.  Photography was another favorite hobby, and some of his pictures hung at their church, Green River Baptist Church. 

Viewing will be at 10:00 AM on Friday, April 21, 2023 at Shackelford Funeral Home, 104 Hill Street, Waynesboro.  The service will follow at 11:00 AM with the Rev. Kerry Franks, pastor of Green River Baptist Church, officiating.  Interment will follow at Memorial Gardens Cemetery.