JIM FRENCH

James Boyd "Jim" French, Lieutenant Colonel, USAF (Ret.), 88, of Lexington passed away on June 30, 2026.

Born on Dec. 1, 1937, Jim was the son of Howard French and Gladys Stoneman French. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Peggy Sue French (née Berkstresser); his brothers, Gordon and Eugene French; and his sister, Carol.

Raised in the coalfields of West Virginia, Jim earned a basketball scholarship to Virginia Military Institute, graduating with the Class of 1960. That opportunity changed the course of his life and led to a distinguished 22-year career as a United States Air Force pilot, including service during the Vietnam War. The HC-130 rescue aircraft remained his favorite assignment. Following military retirement, he enjoyed a successful career in satellite communications with Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) before later working as an independent consultant.

In retirement, Jim discovered a passion for genealogy and devoted countless hours researching and documenting both the French and Berkstresser family histories. He was an active member of the Model A Ford community. An avid golfer for much of his adult life, he enjoyed countless rounds with family and friends and remained passionate about the game for decades. His lifelong love of history led him to spend many hours exploring the places and stories connected to his family's roots, particularly around Tannersville.

Jim was proud of his West Virginia heritage and of seeing all three of his children earn college degrees. He believed family stories should be preserved and shared so future generations would know where they came from.

Jim is survived by his children, Jonathan Brett French of Lexington; Dina Michelle Polashek of O’Fallon, Mo.; and Laura Christine Pearson of Columbus, Ohio; 26 grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his brother, Winfred Lynn French of Fort Pierce, Fla.; and many extended family members and friends.

Jim will be cremated, with a private military interment and honors to be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to an organization supporting veterans or preserving historical heritage in honor of Jim's lifelong interests and values.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.