James Lewis Laster, Sr.

James Lewis Laster, Sr., of Tiptonville, Tennessee, passed away at his residence on September 27, 2026, at the age of 83. He was born on August 10, 1943, in Kenton, Tennessee, and lived a life marked by hard work, strong family ties, and wide-ranging interests that brought him both enjoyment and conversation throughout the years.

Mr. Laster spent more than 40 years as a riverboat captain with Choctaw Towing Company, a career that reflected dedication, skill, and perseverance. His long service on the river stood as a defining part of his life and work, and it was a role he carried with experience and commitment over many decades.

Outside of his career, James enjoyed a number of interests that reflected his curiosity and love of discovery. He found pleasure in arrowhead hunting and metal detecting, pursuits that rewarded patience and attentiveness. He also enjoyed reading and spent time researching Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena and Big Foot, interests that spoke to his inquisitive nature and willingness to explore the mysteries that captured his imagination.

Memorial services for James Laster will be held at a later date. Dyersburg Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce James Laster; his father, Chester Laster; and his mother, Audrey Wilson Laster.

James leaves behind a family who will remember him with love and gratitude. He is survived by his two sons, James Lewis Laster, Jr. of Woodbury, Tennessee and John Brandon Laster of Palmersville, Tennessee; his daughter, Jill Gregory of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee; his step-daughter, Joy Windsor of Tiptonville, Tennessee; and a step-son, Tony Parker of Union City, TN. He is also survived by his brother, Charles Laster of Kentucky Lake, and by his sisters, Shirley Martin of Johnson City, Tennessee, and Marcella Laster of Dyersburg, Tennessee.

He also leaves behind grandchildren who were an important part of his family: Victoria Laster of Denver, Colorado; Lauren Gregory and Olivia Gregory, both of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee; Madison Parker of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; Mia Parker (J'Coy) of Union City, Tennessee; Casey Windsor of Tiptonville, Tennessee; and Chelsea Olhausen (David) of Ridgely, Tennessee. Their lives stand among the many lasting parts of his legacy, and his memory will remain with all who knew and loved him.

James Lewis Laster, Sr. will be remembered for a life of steady work, personal curiosity, and devotion to family. May his memory bring comfort to those he leaves behind.