Muncie - Heaven gained a bright light…our Jimmy Whit, a husband, father, grandfather, and friend…a man who turned the world on with his smile. James Nelson Whittern (Jim), 67, passed away on Monday, August 8, 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer. Jim received exceptional care and kindness from the doctors and nurses on the oncology floor at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital. Jim was born on September 19, 1954 to Wendell and Barbara Whittern and graduated in the first class of Muncie Northside in 1972. He then attended Ball State University where he studied business. Jim enjoyed being the Manager of Eavey’s Grocery Supermarkets for 25 years where he was able to develop deep relationships with customers, vendors and employees. After his time in the grocery business, Jim succeeded over the next 19 years as a software salesman for Boyce Systems from which he retired in June of 2021. Jim married Elizabeth Eavey Whittern, his favorite Titan cheerleader, on November 23, 1977. They were blessed with two daughters, Wendy and Carly. They kept themselves busy cheering their kids on in all of their activities while still encouraging academic excellence. Jim could always be found working as a score keeper, announcer and/or official at their sporting events. Jim loved participating in basketball, running and golf. He competed in the Indy Mini Marathon many times. Most weekends Jim could be found at the golf course with his countless number of friends. His “hole in one” on number six at Delaware Country Club was even more special because it was witnessed by his best friend. Jim lived for his family. His wife, kids and grandkids were his pride and joy and he attended as many of their events as he could. He loved traveling and one of his favorite trips was a recent golf trip to Ireland. After retiring, Jim loved weekends at the lake swimming and boating with his family and friends. Jim is survived by his wife Liz; two children: Wendy (Bill) Pollert and Carly (Chad) Smith; six grandchildren: Annabel, Madeline and Cecelia Pollert; Carolina, Whitten and Beau Smith. He is also survived by his Aunt Marlene Stephens and four siblings: Gary Whittern, Jeff (Polli) Whittern, Cindy McCormick and Jennifer Whittern Combs; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, Wendell and Barbara (BAW) Whittern. In Jimmy’s words…always wear a smile, look for the best in everyone, and never turn down the dance floor. A “Celebration of Life” service will be held at Union Chapel Ministries, located at 4622 N. Broadway Ave, Muncie, IN 47303, at 2 pm on August 18, 2022, with visitation 11-2 pm prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to IU Health Ball Memorial Cancer Center. The Meeks Mortuary and Crematory, Washington Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.meeksmortuary.com.