James Taylor Brackett

James "Jim" "Jimmy" Taylor Brackett, 69, of Etowah, Tennessee, passed away Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Born April 7, 1957, in Dalton, Georgia, he was the son of the late Migie and Frances Brackett. Jim grew up in Old Fort, Tennessee, and attended Polk County High School.

Jim worked for many years as an automotive technician before becoming the owner and operator of Jim's Automotive Repair in Etowah. He proudly worked alongside his son, Jamie, and was known for treating his customers fairly and honestly.

Jim loved his family deeply, honestly, and enjoyed drag racing and spending time with friends and fellow racers. He will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, kind heart, and the many friendships he made throughout his life.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Brenda Dacus; and brothers, Dewayne Brackett, Freeman Brackett, and Rueben Brackett.

Survivors include his loving wife, Kathy Brackett; sister, Sue Brackett; daughter and son-in-law, April and Clay Smith; son and daughter-in-law, Jamie and Brandy Brackett; grandchildren, Alyssa Robinson, Skyler Brackett, Trey Jacobs, Sophie Smith, Callie Smith, and Dakota Brackett; and great-grandchildren, Ivy Robinson and Troop Robinson.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, June 6th, 2026, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Brainerd Motorsports Park in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for family, friends, and fellow racers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Etowah Christmas for Kids in Etowah, Tennessee, a charity that was very close to Jim's heart. He believed no child should go without a good Christmas.

Jim will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Decatur Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to serve the Brackett family.