James M. Tidwell, age 86, of Rome, Georgia, passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
James was born in Rome, Georgia, on October 20, 1939, son of the late James Alfred Tidwell and Hazel Virginia Riggins Tidwell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Erin Ables Clark; his sisters, Joan Cowart and Lynda Dixon; and his sons-in-law, Mitch Ables and Donald Fisher Jr.
In his early years James was a talented draftsman and later worked for 25 years as a chemist for Plant Bowen/Georgia Power until his retirement in 1994. In his prime, he was an avid golfer and enjoyed gardening. He was a member of the Western Promenaders for over 10 years, and in retirement was a loyal member of the Georgia Power Ambassadors.
Above all, James was devoted to his family and cherished every moment spent with those he loved. He never met a stranger and enjoyed his friends and church family. He was kind and enjoyed a great laugh wherever he went.
James was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Survivors include his wife, Arlene Davis Tidwell; sister, Gail Blanton (Vonny); daughters, Dawn Ables (Allen) and Debbie Fisher; his sons, Darien Tidwell (Cathy) and Dave Tidwell (Kesha); eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and several beloved extended family members.
Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in the Chapel at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, North Chapel, with Pastor Clyde Hampton officiating.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 12:00 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, North Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Open Door Children’s Home, 5 Leon St SW Rome Georgia 30165
Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, North Chapel, is honored to serve the family of James M. Tidwell.
