James M. Head

James (Jim) M. Head was born on July 17, 1943, in Council Bluffs, Iowa.  He passed away peacefully at his home in Winder, Georgia, surrounded by his loving family on July 24, 2017.  He was 74 years old.  After an extended battle with lung disease caused by smoking, his dying wish was to warn of the dangers of smoking.  As he frequently said, "If you haven't stopped smoking, please quit now".  Jim had quit smoking three years prior to his death, too late to avoid contracting the associated lung disease.  Jim was born and raised in Council Bluffs and spent most of his life there.  He was a longtime business owner of Head's Radiator and Automotive, and was very active in the Council Bluff's Business Association.  For many years, he was also a member of the Masonic Lodge in Council Bluffs.  Jim met and married Jo Ann in 1979; they lived in Council Bluffs for 19 years before relocating to the Atlanta area in 1995.  He became an avid cabinet maker, learning the craft from Jo Ann's brothers.  Jim enjoyed his semi-retirement years working along side his close friend Charlie McAfee.  Fishing was his lifelong passion.  Later in life, he discovered the enjoyment of camping and grandchildren which he was able to combine with his love of fishing.  Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Elden N. and Genevieve (James) Head.  Brothers, Roger and Daniel Head, all of Council Bluffs.  Walter Head of Lincoln, Nebraska, and a sister Lennabelle Kilibarda of Council Bluffs, and a great granddaughter Mariah Scott of Wakefield, Nebraska. Jim is survived by Jo Ann, his loving wife and best friend of 38 years.  Other survivors include a brother, Roy Head (Fern) of Glenwood, Minnesota.  Daughters, Teresa Rhods (Ron Brestel) of Lincoln, Nebraska.  Michelle (Parks) Howland (Russell) of Hoschton, Georgia.  Sons, James Head Jr. (Angie) of Cozad, Nebraska, and Michael Parks (partner Amy) of Winder, GA.  13 grandchildren including their spouses, 7 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  In lieu of flowers donations can be made at https://www.youcaring.com/ joannhead-887278. A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, July 30, 2017, from 2 pm - 5 pm Come as you are, casual attire requested. Apalachee Farms Club House 1001 Dacula Road Dacula, GA 30019. Arangements by Byrd & Flanigan Crematory and Funeral Service Lawrenceville, GA. (770)962-2200 ByrdandFlanigan.com