James Julian Finch

James Julian Finch "Jim" 88, of North Little Rock passed away the evening of February 23rd. He was born on February 18th, 1936 to Hazel Mae Berry and Allen Herschel Finch. He was raised in rural Faulkner County and graduated from Vilonia High School where he was active in sports.

He attended Arkansas State Teachers College (now University of Central Arkansas) where he was a member of the Bears baseball team. Upon graduating with a degree in physical education and biology, he married his sweetheart, Edna Grace James. They had 59 years of loving marriage.

After coaching and teaching for four years, Jim entered school at Herman Hospital Physical Therapy. When he graduated, he returned to Arkansas where he opened a private practice and contracted with several hospitals to provide physical therapy services. Over the years, he mentored many physical therapists and helped some of them start their own practices.

Jim was an avid hunter and skeet shooter, traveling all over the country to enjoy his hobby and compete in tournaments. Many of his afternoons and weekends were spent at the Blue Rock Sportsman  Club. He was a follower of athletics and particularly enjoyed attending live basketball and baseball games. Jim was also a member of the Lakewood United Methodist Church where he often attended the Blue Jean Service on Sunday mornings.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his soul mate, Edna Grace. He is survived by his son James Allen Finch of Los Angeles, CA, his daughter Kristen Finch Johnston and her husband Andy of Houston, TX, and three grandchildren, Hannah, Katherine and Matthew Johnston.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home with a visitation one hour prior to the service.  Burial will be at Rest Hills Memorial Park.   

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lakewood United Methodist Church or the Blue Rock Sportsman Club building fund.

Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, AR  72114.  501-758-1170.