James Thomas Barham

James Thomas “Tommy” Barham passed away after a lengthy illness at Bristol Wellmont Hospital on Friday, July 1, 2016. He was preceded in death by his parents, G.B. and Peggy Ann Barham, half-sister, Pat Hieb; and three nieces: Laura Altizer, Jessica Lindsey, and Maria Powers.Tommy is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Vickie Stapleton Barham, and son, Joshua Thomas Barham; one sister, Lisa Barham Lindsey; extended family members: Carolyn & Wally Crawford, Kathy Martin, Billy Stapleton, Marty Stapleton and Andy; several nieces and nephews. Tommy is also survived by a special lifelong friend, Wendell Christian.Tommy was born on February 2, 1960 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and was a third generation grandson to carry on his given name. He moved to Kingsport as a young boy, and attended Kingsport City Schools, and was a member of the Dobyns Bennett graduating class of 1978.Tommy married the love of his life, Vickie on April 12, 1979 at Morrison’s Chapel United Methodist Church. Tommy worked in the furniture business most of his life and opened his first business “Sandman’s Sit and Sleep Shop” in 1995. His business grew and he eventually owned his own furniture store “Sandman’s Home Furnishings” in Greeneville TN. He was most proud of this accomplishment in his life, and leaving the business due to kidney failure was very difficult for him. Tommy was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, son and friend.Tommy battled kidney failure end stage renal disease for over 17 years with Vickie by his side every step of the way. During his illness, Tommy acquired a Maltese dog, Hunter. He and Vickie later added a female Hannah, and they raised a litter of puppies, and they kept and loved them all.Tommy was a God-fearing man who believed in Jesus and heaven. Tommy recently told Vickie that he was ready to surrender to God’s will for his life. His favorite Bible verse was John 3:16. In honor of his life, Vickie would like to share this passage of Scripture. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. II Tim. 4: 7-8. Vickie would like to extend a special thank you to Sullivan County Rescue Squad and to Elizabeth Krell for their compassion, kindness and service down through the years. Tommy’s life will be celebrated in a private family service. Memorial contributions may be made to his wife, Vickie Barham, in care of Carolyn Crawford, 709 Dewberry Circle, Kingsport, TN 37663. The staff of Oak Hill Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of James Thomas Barham.Read Obituary