James T. Chumley
James Theodore “Jim” Chumley, 62, of Winamac, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, Feb. 9. He passed away peacefully at his residence, surrounded by his loving family and wrapped in the promise of eternal life through Christ.
Jim was born on Dec. 9, 1963, in Hammond. On Oct. 29, 1983, he married his beloved Pamela Jo Armstrong in DeLong. Together, they shared more than forty years of marriage filled with laughter, devotion and a partnership that carried them through every joy and challenge life presented.
Jim was a skilled machinist, who took pride in knowing how things worked and in teaching his children the same. He spent many years at BraunAbility in Winamac, where he was known for his strong work ethic and practical know-how. Independent by nature, he preferred to do things his own way and usually a grin to match. Quick with a joke, easy to laugh, and genuinely kind, he brought light and warmth wherever he went.
Sports were a lifelong passion for Jim. In his younger years, he played several sports and was an avid softball player, a love he carried throughout his life. He cherished the time he spent playing and sharing the game with his sons-in-law. He also loved fishing, watching NASCAR, and enjoying the simple pleasures that brought him peace and joy. Beyond sports, Jim was an exceptionally gifted musician, playing the guitar and drums with skill that amazed all who watched. He could dance with incredible rhythm and grace, filling any room with energy and laughter, and his deep appreciation for music and movement was infectious.
Family was the heart of Jim’s life. He was a devoted father, spending countless hours coaching his daughters in basketball, softball, and all their endeavors. He showed his love not just through words, but through presence - always there, always cheering, always believing in them. To his family, he was their rock, their protector, their biggest fan, and their hero. He deeply loved his brothers and sisters as well, speaking with them often and cherishing every connection.
After helping raise his three beloved daughters, he went on to help raise six more children, opening his heart and home without hesitation. To them, he was a steady presence and guiding hand, and a father figure whose love was given freely and fiercely.
Jim grew up in the church, learning and cherishing God’s Word and renewing his faith and salvation to Christ before he passed. While his family mourns his passing, they find comfort in knowing he is now healed, whole, and rejoicing in heaven. They hold close the peace of knowing he was welcomed home with the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
Jim will be remembered and deeply missed for his unwavering determination, his infectious humor, his steady presence, and the immense love he shared so freely with those closest to him. His life was a testament to the joy of living fully, loving deeply, and leaving a lasting mark on every heart he touched.
He is survived by wife Pamela Jo (Armstrong) Chumley, Winamac; daughters: Krystal Sue [husband: Josh] Attinger, Winamac, Jennifer Jean [husband: Sylvester] Burns, Star City, Julie Nicole [husband: Jeff] Attinger, Star City, Whitney Chumley and Riley Chumley; sons: Cayden Joseph Chumley, Winamac, David Lee Chumley, Michael Ray Chumley and Kyle Chumley; granddaughters: Hailey Attinger and Kylie Attinger; grandsons: Austin Attinger and Blair Burns; sisters: Katherine [husband: Arthur] Navarrete, Midland, Texas, Glenda F. Kirk, Culver, Synthia Marie [husband: Gary] Clingler, Rochester, Candy Lyn [husband: Gary] Weaver, Palm Bay, Florida, Bobbie Kaye [husband: Donald] Smith, Kokomo, Tracy Chumley, Kalamazoo, Michigan and Terry [husband: Mike] Trombley, Kalamazoo, Michigan; brother Thomas William [wife: Mandy] Chumley, Monterey; step-mother Sharon Chumley, Griffith; many nieces and nephews; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Preceded in death by mother and step-father: Marie and Robert Kirk; father Thomas Chumley; and sister Sharon Renee Schlemmer.
Visitation was from 4-8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 12, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 13, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac with Gary Clingler officiating.
Burial took place at Riverbank Cemetery in Winamac.
Memorial contributions may be made to Legacy Christian Academy (5288 North Old US Hwy 31 Rochester, IN 46975). Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
(Pulaski County Journal — Feb. 18, 2026)