James “Jim” Luther Draffen, Jr., 80, of Calvert City, Kentucky passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at Mercy Health Lourdes Hospital in Paducah, Kentucky.
Jim was born to the late James Draffen, Sr. and Annie Lou “Sue” Draffen on July 30, 1943 in Maryville, Tennessee. He attended and graduated from Mississippi State University with his Bachelor’s Degree. Most recently Jim was a partial owner of Draffen’s Inc. working alongside his father and brother at their family business. He was very active within and a long time supporter of the Kentucky Drag Boat Association. While his children were growing up he was also very active with the “Ole 97” Boy Scout Troop in Memphis, Tennessee. Jim had a lifelong passion for boating and loved Kentucky Lake. He was a member of Heartland Church and most recently attended Altona Baptist Church.
Jim is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carol Babb Draffen; his three sons, Samuel Tip Draffen (Angela) of Draffenville, Kentucky, John Mark Draffen (Jennifer) of San Mateo, California, and Stephen Babb Draffen of Oxford, Mississippi; two nieces, Misti Jaco and DeeAnn Bogaczyk; four grandchildren, Kylie Jones, Oliver Draffen, Eleanor Draffen, and Amelia Draffen; and his beloved dog, Rex.
He was preceded in death by one brother, John Morris Draffen; and his parents, James Draffen, Sr. and Annie Lou “Sue” Draffen.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donation to Racers for Christ North Central Region 3, 1303 S. Longmore Ste. 7, Mesa, AZ 85202 or to North Mississippi Regional Center, 967 Regional Center Drive, Oxford, MS 38655.
Visitation will be held from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann, 1003 Poplar Street, Benton, KY 42025.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann, 1003 Poplar Street, Benton, KY 42025 with Bro. Vince Ottway and Bro. Rob Brasher officiating. Burial will follow at Calvert City Cemetery.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family visit www.filbeckandcann.com