James Henry Jett III

James (Jim) Henry Jett III, singer, songwriter, beloved teacher, lover of all things in Mexico, and just a great guy to be around, left us at age 81, in his home in Asheville, North Carolina with his wife, Helen, by his side.

Jim was born on July 18, 1944, to Edith Carolyn Rivenbark and James Henry Jett, Jr. in Wilmington, North Carolina. After graduating from New Hanover High School, Jim went on to study Spanish as an undergraduate at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina and as a graduate student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Jim taught at various locations throughout his career, including high schools, elementary schools, and colleges.  He taught English as a Second Language (ESL) for the North Carolina Community College System in Raleigh and during his “retirement” years in Asheville, North Carolina.  While in Asheville, he also volunteered with the Literacy Council and Habitat for Humanity.  His ESL students adored his English lessons, taught with music and an obvious love and respect for the immigrant community.  One of his original tunes, “Greenville Trestle High,” was recorded by Doc & Merle Watson and included on their Grammy Award-winning Traditional Album of the Year, “Riding the Midnight Train,” in 1986.  In 2002, Rebel Records included another version of the song on their “Raised by the Railroad Line-Classic American Train Songs.” 

Jim was predeceased by his mother, Edith Rivenbark Morrison, his father, James Henry Jett, Jr., and his stepfather, Joseph Morrison. He is survived by his wife, Helen Jett, his sister, Mary Jo Holt (Russell), his niece Sarah Anne Stephens and her son, Mattox Ryder, and a long list of adoring friends and extended family members.

His gentle, kind manner and laugh will be missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation to the charity of your choice.

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