Jimmy Sells Obituary

Jimmy Lee "Jim" Sells

March 24, 1945 -

January 13, 2026

Jimmy Lee "Jim" Sells passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on the morning of January 13, 2026. Jim was born to Vonsel and Dorotha Barnes Sells on March 24, 1945 in Murphy, North Carolina. When Jim was a young boy, the family relocated to Rogersville as his father worked for the Tennessee Valley Authority. Jim attended Rogersville High School where he was a proud member of the football team. He also met the love of his life there, Margaret Price Sells.

They were married in 1963 and spent sixty-two years together.

Jim retired from Bell South after many years of dedicated service. He also became involved in the governing of the Town of Rogersville in 1971 when he was elected as Alderman. In 1978, he was elected as Mayor of Rogersville, a title he held until his retirement in June of 2025. Jim had a love for the Town and earnestly worked to provide a stable, healthy government for the citizens of Rogersville. He also served on various local and state boards, including Chairman of the First Tennessee Development District. While serving, he made many lifelong friends. Jim especially enjoyed playing golf, supporting Tennessee athletics, and eating everything that he wasn't supposed to eat. He was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Rogersville, a 32nd Degree Mason, Overton Masonic Lodge #5 F & AM, Hasson Street OES, Knoxville Scottish Rite, Jericho Shrine Center, and the Rogersville Kiwanis Club.

Jim had a sincere and obvious love for his family. He was devoted to his wife, Margaret. Along with her, he is survived by his daughter, Leigh (Tom) and his son, James (Carla.) He is survived by four grandchildren, Allie June McMakin, Savannah Sells (Hunter), Elijah Sells (Kirah), and James Isaac McNeil; six great-grandchildren, Andrew, Daniel, Rudy, Huntleigh, Silas, and Oliver; sister-in-law, Pam Elkins (Larry), sister-in-law, Carolyn Byrd, sister-in-law, Ann Price, sister-in-law, Monica Price, extended family; Ron and Annette Beach, several nieces and nephews; and the many citizens of Rogersville whom he loved to serve.

Receiving of friends will be held at Christian-Sells Funeral Home on Thursday, January 15 from 5:00-7:00. Funeral Services will follow at 7:00 with Reverend Tim Seaton officiating. Graveside Services will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, January 16 at Highland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Rogersville, c/o Media Ministry.

Online condolences may be sent at www.christiansells.com.