James Garey Vanatta

McMinnville, TN resident and DeKalb County, TN native James Garey Vanatta, age 62, was born January 1, 1954 and died December 31, 2016 at his residence following an eight-month illness. A self-employed construction worker and a United States Army veteran of Vietnam, he was the son of Ruth Vanatta of McMinnville and the late James Thomas Vanatta. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by step-mother, Doris Vanatta; brother, Randall Vanatta; niece, Nicole Vanatta; and nephew, Jacob Vanatta. In addition to his mother, he is survived by son, Jared Vanatta of McMinnville; former wife, Phyllis Vanatta of McMinnville; brother, Dwayne Thomas Vanatta of Lockhart, TX; sister and brother-in-law, Tammy and Frankie Beavers of Manchester, TN; nieces and nephew, Beth Vanatta of Murfreesboro, TN and Coltin and Caitlin Beavers of Manchester, TN; great-niece, Lillie Ann Martinson of Murfreesboro, TN; extended family, Deborah Vanatta of Jarrell, TX, Wanetta Scott of Murfreesboro, TN and Reagan Miller of McMinnville; and several aunts, uncles and cousins also survive. A graveside service and inurnment will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 4, 2017 in New Union Cemetery, Hwy. 30 with family and friends to officiate. Military grave rites will be administered by VFW Post 5064 and American Legion Post 173. Family and friends are to meet at the cemetery. There will be no visitation or service at High's. Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.