James E. (Jim) Stalvey, Sr.

James E. (Jim) Stalvey, Sr., of Covington, passed away Friday, January 6, 2023, at the age of 80. Jim Stalvey began his restaurant career in Covington, Georgia in 1972, with the purchase of the Crest Restaurant. Over the next 50 plus years, he opened 15 more restaurants in and around the Covington area. Jim loved Covington, the support of his loyal customers, and was always giving back. Jim was very blessed and never forgot it! His dedication to this community was evidenced by the 7 years he, his staff, along with hospital volunteers, provided an annual barbeque to raise much needed funds for Newton Medical Center, now Piedmont Newton Hospital. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the barbeque went directly to the hospital. Jim Stalvey's giving nature was also known to his dedicated staff by ensuring his policy that no one ever came into his restaurants and left hungry, even if they could not afford to pay; he never said no to anyone in need. Jim will be missed by all who had the privilege to know, remember, and admire him; most importantly, his family, friends, and dedicated staff. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle. His legacy in Covington, Georgia will last forever! Jim was preceded in death by his son, Scott Stalvey; and parents, Norwood A. and Vera Katherine Wright Stalvey.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Sharon Stalvey; sons, James E. Stalvey, Jr. (Carrie), Greg Stalvey, Winston Stalvey; daughter, Maria Carlock (Joe); grandchildren, Marlee Wilson (Dexter), Makenna Stalvey, Brittany Blumenthal (Eric), Danielle Stalvey, Lane Stalvey (Jade), Bo Stalvey (Olivia), Meghan Goodwin (Clinton), Morgan Plumb (Erik), Maddox Carlock, Mason Carlock; great-grandchildren, Ivy Wilson, Weston Wilson, Irie Moss, Mila Moss, Camden Blumenthal, Bennett Blumenthal, Anderson Blumenthal, Evelyn Blumenthal, Brinleigh Turner, Major Stalvey, Callaway Magee, Davis Goodwin, Waylon Goodwin, Stella Brooks, Stassi Plumb; brother, Billy N. Stalvey (Evelyn); and several nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service for Jim will be held Tuesday, January 10, 2023, 2:00 P.M., at the Chapel of Caldwell & Cowan, 1215 Access Road, in Covington, with Pastor Rob Rayner officiating. The family will receive friends briefly following the service. Flowers are accepted, or in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, Shriner’s Hospitals for Children, PO Box 947765, Atlanta, Georgia 30394, or Salvation Army, PO Box 1044, Covington, Georgia 30014.