James "Beetle" S. Denard Jr.

James Samuel Denard Jr. passed away peacefully on Monday, April 14th, 2025, at the age of 94. James was born on Wednesday, May 7th, 1930, in Tignall, Georgia where he grew up.

After a long time eyeing Elizabeth “Libba” Long, he finally got the courage to pull his car over to meet her in downtown Washington. That was the start of a lifetime love. After years of dating, they eloped (with their parents' blessings) and their precious marriage lasted 72 inseparable years.

James enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1953. He was called to active duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Master Sergeant James S. Denard was honorably discharged from the Army National Guard of Georgia and as a Reserve of the Army in 1963. During his service, he made lifelong friends with the men he served with. It was during that time he was fondly nicknamed “Beetle” after the Private Carl James Beetle Bailey comic book character. He loved his country and rang a liberty bell from his family’s farm at 12:00 on July 4th every year. He rang it loud and long for all to hear!!

Beetle was hardworking and a skilled tradesman. He built the house that he and Libba lived in their whole life where they lovingly raised their daughters. For nearly 40 years, Beetle was owner operator of Washington Shell Service Station where he worked until he retired. Beetle is remembered as one of the last true service station men who pumped your gas, washed your windshield, checked your oil, the air in your tires and had a caring conversation about you and your family. His favorite employee was his bookkeeper, Libba.

Beetle‘s favorite past time was playing golf. He was on the course at Washington Wilkes Country Club every chance he could be and also played in local tournaments.

After years of declining sight, he became totally blind at the age of 70 but never lost his love for the game. He spent his weekends listening to golf. There was always a golf tournament on his TV except on Georgia football Saturdays. He loved the Bulldogs and in earlier years he and Libba didn’t miss a game, traveling and tailgating with friends. He loved collecting knives and coins, and for extra income, he enjoyed buying, repairing and selling cars .

James was a devoted family man, survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Long Denard, with whom he shared many wonderful years. Together, they built a beautiful family, including their daughters, Vicki Rodrigues and her husband John of Watkinsville, GA, and Jackie Gattis and her husband Doug of Cumming, GA. James was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Megan Stephens (Matt), Lauren Arthur (Tyler), Kirstin Smith (Ethan), Doug Gattis (Lauryn), and Dillon Gattis (Katie McCants). His legacy continues through his eight great-grandchildren: Hudson, Audrey, and Garrett Stephens; Camilla and Violet Arthur; Ollie and CeCe Smith; and Wylder Gattis.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James Samuel Denard Sr. and Estelle Denard, who undoubtedly welcomed him with open arms.

A visitation will be held on April 19, 2025, from 11 a.m. until 12 noon, followed by a service at 12 noon. A private interment will take place thereafter. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hopkins Funeral Home, who have provided compassionate care during this time.

James will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his kindness, and his gentle spirit. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those he loved and those who loved him.