James Leonard Wimsatt — a World War II veteran, lifelong artist, and longtime Owensboro resident — died on Friday, Valentine’s Day, at Chautauqua Health Care. He was 106.
Born in Ohio County to Thomas and Iva Lanham Wimsatt, Wimsatt grew up during the Great Depression as one of 14 siblings. His early years were marked by hard work on the family farm, where he developed a love for the outdoors and art. Without access to traditional supplies, he expressed his creativity by sketching on rocks, carving pictures into wood, and even using the back of a worn-out shirt as his first canvas.
Wimsatt later served in the Army Air Corps during World War II, where he earned the rank of staff sergeant and was awarded four Bronze Battle Stars for his service. He was stationed primarily in Italy and witnessed the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 1944.
Following his military service, Wimsatt built a career at General Electric, working there for 25 years. He was known for his ingenuity, playing a key role in helping GE secure multiple patents for assembling parts. His career took him and his wife, Gertrude “Trudy” Wimsatt, to Florida, where they lived for two decades.
After retiring, Wimsatt opened Jack and Jenny’s restaurant on 9th Street in Owensboro and embraced his lifelong passion for painting. His work often depicted Kentucky’s landscapes, bridges, and historic gristmills, as well as portraits of historical figures like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Cochise, and Mother Teresa. His paintings are part of collections across all 50 states, and his work remains highly sought after by collectors.
“He is one of Owensboro’s hidden treasures,” longtime friend Paul Merritt said. “His attitude toward life and his determination to paint the world he saw made not only Owensboro better but the whole world a better place.”
David Bell, a funeral director at Glenn Funeral Home, said Wimsatt’s service will include military honors provided by the U.S. Air Force, VFW Post 696, and a final salute from the American Legion.
“They typically come in and say a few words, and then the members that are able to be here march through and offer a salute,” Bell said. “It’s an intentional way to signify and show respect.”
Bell said it’s rare to see a World War II veteran of Wimsatt’s age.
“I don’t even think we average one a year now,” Bell said.
Wimsatt’s artistry and legacy will be highlighted during the visitation with a display of his paintings. Glenn Funeral Home will also showcase a video slideshow featuring photographs of Wimsatt throughout his life, some nearly 100 years old.
Wimsatt was known for his sense of humor, deep faith, and insistence on staying active — attributing his longevity to hard work, strong relationships, and a steady diet of chocolate ice cream.
“I do like my chocolate ice cream,” Wimsatt once said. “They could put that in sideways if they want. But you have to move. You have to get up and work in the garden or around the house.”
Wimsatt and his wife were members of First Christian Church, where they spent much of their time giving back to the community. After 77 years of marriage, Trudy passed away in 2022. Those who knew them best say she was always by his side, offering guidance and encouragement, particularly when he was working on his art.
“When he would get stuck (on a painting), she was right there to give him advice,” Merritt said. “He would always jokingly say, ‘She does the hard part. She cleans up the mess.’”
Wimsatt is survived by his sister, Frances Ingersoll, as well as many generations of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife and 12 siblings.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on February 25 at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Monday and from 9 a.m. until the time of service Tuesday. He will be buried at Owensboro Memorial Gardens.
Though he has passed, Wimsatt’s legacy lives on through his artwork, his kindness, and the countless lives he touched throughout his 106 years.
