James Paxton Gilliam

James Paxton Gilliam, age 74 of Johnson City, Tennessee, passed away on July 8, 2026. He was born on February 20, 1952, in Front Royal, Virginia, to Howard Gilliam Sr. and Margaret Paxton Davis.

James, or to his family and friends he was known simply as Pax. He was raised in Decatur, Georgia and graduated from Decatur High School in 1970. He joined the Navy Air Reserves in 1971.

Pax will be remembered for his gift of engaging conversations, his love of motorcycles, and taking the road less traveled as he explored the wonderous mountains of Northern Georgia, Western North Carolina, and Eastern Tennessee. Pax was curious by nature, outgoing, and easy to talk with. Perhaps that is why he had such a successful career of over 30 years as a SNAP-ON Technical Representative.

Pax's first job was selling Kawasaki motorcycles this, laid the groundwork for a lifelong love of motorcycles and working in the automotive industry. An avid motorcycle enthusiast, he enjoyed trips with family and friends. One of his first motorcycle adventures was a cross-country trip with his buddies that took him from Georgia to Canada and then parts of the Midwest until he finally returned home. Whether it was a breakfast ride to Spruce Pine with friends or small day trips with Barbara to Ashville, Blowing Rock, Boone, and Cherokee; Pax was always up for a ride.

He was a member of Grace Fellowship church and especially enjoyed sharing time with the Rannick Community Group.

He is survived by his wife Barbara Ann Adams and step-daughter Jodi Kleinert (Kenneth Kleinert), and granddaughters Sarah Schad (Benjamin Schad) and Molly Kleinert and many friends. Pax was preceded in death by his father Howard Gilliam, Sr., mother Margaret, and brothers Eddie and Howard, Jr.

To honor Pax's wishes, there will be no funeral service. We invite you to please privately celebrate Pax's memory in your own ways. We know that he will be with us in spirit as we head out on those roads less traveled, seeking new adventures and experiencing God's creations.

Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family, online condolences can be shared with the family on our website at www.trinitymemorialcenters.com.