Story contibutor Jennifer Stewart Johnson
James N Stewart (Jim,Jimmy )a Clinton County and Kirklin Icon had a Tribute made just for him Saturday at noon in Kirklin, organized by family and his brother Jerry Stewart also a lifelong trucker.
Starting at the town Park and shop Jimmy owned for 50 years and owned and operated semis, dump trucks for almost 65 years and raced them for fun and the WIN.
Jimmy was known for so many things, He taught people to drive big rigs, Provided jobs for many many truckers through out the state. Coming from a small town in Tennessee, Jim moved to Kirklin Indiana when he was just 15 years old to build a success life and business.
He does not ever know a stranger and literally helped everyone he knew or didn’t know. He is known to give them a job, food to eat or place to stay, He was always helping someone. Jimmy loved his garden and gave his crop to so many from the garden.
Recently Jimmy was unfortunately diagnosed with Brain Cancer and all the people wanted to give back by giving him a Tribune. It was absolutely gorgeous for this old trucker. 43 trucks lined up, with his previously owned 69 GMC long nose leading that pack. Which can still tear up the road by the way. The crowd cheered and Jimmy about came up out of his chair. Many others joined in with their cars, motor cycles. Police escort Rich Kelley and Kirklin Fire Department joined in the fun to honor Jim Stewart.
The family would like to thank everyone who had a part in this day. It is great to see a community come together and give back to someone who gave so much to so many people in this county. With much love to the community.
The Stewart Family
Photos of the event taken by Patty Keaton Parks can be seen by clicking links below
Video by Erick Dircks