James Harold Jacks

LCDR James Harold Jacks, USN Ret., beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on August 20, 2026, in Aiken, South Carolina, at the age of 77, following complications from Parkinson’s Disease.

Born on January 31, 1949, in Tehachapi, California, James spent his formative years growing up in Mojave, CA. From a young age, he demonstrated a commitment to service and leadership, attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. Experiences that would set the tone for a lifetime dedicated to service both for his country and community.

After completing high school, James enlisted in the United States Navy. His dedication, resilience, and aptitude led him to a distinguished career. Rising through the ranks to become a commissioned officer, he ultimately retired after 20 years of exemplary service as a lieutenant commander. During his career, he served in Vietnam, completed two tours in Hawaii, commanded the Sugar Grove Naval Base in West Virginia, and concluded his service at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia. Well decorated for his contributions and valor, James was a source of inspiration and guidance to many who served with him.

It was during his time at Sugar Grove Naval Base that James met the love of his life, Paula Watkins Jacks. Together, they built a family defined by love, mutual respect, and enduring support. In 1995, following his retirement from the Navy, James and Paula settled in Aiken, SC, where he began a new chapter as an educator. For two decades, he taught shop and industrial technology at Silver Bluff High School. Through his patient mentorship and dedication, James helped countless students develop practical skills while imparting the values of diligence and integrity. He also guided others as a leader of Boy Scouts of America Troop 146 at South Aiken Presbyterian Church.

James was a man of varied interests and deep passions. He was a Civil War reenactor and proud member of the 6th South Carolina Cavalry, devoting much of his leisure time to studying and bringing history to life. Additionally, he enjoyed collecting and working with Lionel trains. He loved the beach and traveling all over the world with his beautiful wife long after his Navy career ended.

James’s legacy continues through the family he cherished: his wife, Paula Irene Jacks; his children, Victoria Leigh Jacks (Corey Stinson) of The Netherlands, Capt. James Gilbert Jacks, USAF (Capt. Madeline) of Sacramento, CA, Pamela Grace Tengbergen (Whitney) of Houston, TX, and Kristina Anne Watson (Tom) of Phoenix, AZ; his grandchildren, Sloane Elise Jacks, Ariel Catherina Tengbergen Carreon (Juan), Ryan Tad Welch, and Damien Vincent Johnson; and his great-grandchildren, Mia Grace Carreon, Jesse Jace Carreon, Christien Keli’i Ramiscal, Rogan Welch, Lennox Welch, and Leanne Marie Johnson. He is also survived by his brother, Keith Earl Jacks (Bridgette) of Selma, NC. He was preceded in death by his father, John Gilbert Jacks, and his mother, Mary Nielsine Nielsen Jacks.

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember James’s life at a memorial service Saturday morning, August 29, 2026 at Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Home. There will be a visitation at 10 o’clock, followed by an 11 o'clock service, and concluding with a reception at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the The Parkinson's Foundation (The Parkinson's Foundation) or to the VFW.

SHELLHOUSE - RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC