James Boyd Hutcheson

James Boyd Hutcheson, a devoted public servant, Marine, cattle farmer, and lifelong resident of Marshall County, Alabama, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025, leaving xbehind a legacy of service, hard work, and love for his community. Born on December 16, 1946, in Marshall County, James graduated from Marshall County High School in 1965 and continued his education at Northeast Junior College. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1967 to 1971. After his military service, he attended Jacksonville State University, where he majored in business finance. James began his professional career at Monsanto until its closure in 1980. He then founded Valley Industrial Services, which was responsible for maintaining operations at the former Monsanto site. In 1995, he and several partners purchased the site and leased the water plant to Northeast Rural Water. This initiative helped bring city water services to the communities of Wakefield, South Sauty, and Center Point for the first time. During this time, he also co-founded Sand Mountain Fibers, which was later sold to Filtex. In 2010, James was elected Chairman of the Marshall County Commission, a role he held for nearly 15 years until the time of his death. His tenure was marked by steadfast dedication to improving the lives of county residents. During his tenure, he oversaw renovations to both County Courthouses, the jail, and various county roads, bridges (including the Red Mill (Double Bridges) Bridge in Asbury-Martling Community), Marshall County Animal Shelter (first in the history of our county), parks and other county sites and offices. Drawing on his finance background, he was able to substantially strengthen the financial position of the County, increasing its savings and placing the County on firm financial footing. James demonstrated a deep commitment to public service, and he was respected by colleagues and constituents alike, being reelected three times. Outside of his public duties, James was a hardworking cattle farmer and small business owner, embodying the values of determination, integrity, and resilience that defined his life. A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, James carried with him the discipline and honor of his service throughout all aspects of his life. He deeply loved his home in Marshall County and never strayed far from the land and people he cherished. While James’ professional accomplishments were many, his greatest joy was his family. A devoted husband, father, and proud grandfather, he cherished every moment watching his daughter and grandchildren grow and succeed. James is survived by his loving wife, Dianne; his daughter, Melissa Brown (Jeff); two grandchildren, Matthew (Haley) and Jamie Brown; his sister, Sue Green (Walter); his nephews, Dave Green and Derrick (Chasse) Green, and his niece, Mandy Patterson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bethel and Eva Mae Hutcheson, and by his brother, Gordon Hutcheson. He will be remembered for his strong moral compass, deep sense of duty, and the care he showed to both his family and his community. His presence will be greatly missed, but his contributions and memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. A funeral service will be held Thursday on May 8, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Marshall County RSVP, 19272 Highway 431, Guntersville, Alabama, Hon. Clint Maze officiating. Visitation will be at 11:00 AM for family and from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM for the public. Pallbearers will be Matthew Brown, Dave Green, Walt Davenport, Judge Tim Riley, Judge Mitch Floyd, Commissioner Joey Baker, Andy Ray and James Hard (honorary pallbearer). In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Wakefield Volunteer Fire Department, Guntersville Historical Society, or to the charity of your choic

James Boyd Hutcheson

December 16, 1946 - May 3, 2025