James “Yankee Jim” William Entwistle

James "Yankee Jim" Entwistle passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a very brief battle with an aggressive cancer.

Born in 1958 in New Jersey, Jim carried his northern roots with pride, earning him the nickname "Yankee Jim" long after making North Carolina his home in the 1980s. A talented brick mason, he built a successful business through hard work, determination, and craftsmanship. He believed in doing a job right and took great pride in the work of his hands.

To those who knew him, Jim was one of a kind. He never met a stranger, enjoyed spending time with his friends, and was always ready to share a story, a laugh, or his opinion. If you saw Jim, chances are his faithful companion, Eazy, wasn't far behind. Whether he was catching up with friends, enjoying the outdoors, or spending time with his family, he found joy in life's simple pleasures. His strength, stubbornness, humor, and generous heart will be remembered by everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Jim is survived by his loving daughter, Jaime Penninger and husband Michael and their daughter, Alyssa of Benson, NC; and his beloved dog and constant companion, Eazy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Gail Entwistle, his brother, William Entwistle, and his grandparents.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at 1pm, at the Garner VFW. Family and friends are invited to gather to share stories, laughter, and memories as they celebrate the life of a man who lived life on his own terms and left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Transitions LifeCare or the Garner VFW Post 10225 in Jim's memory.

Though Yankee Jim may have laid down his tools and said his final goodbye, the stories, laughter, and memories he created will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.