J.B. Winkler

Mr. James Billy "J.B." Winkler, 66, of Statesville, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 24, 2014, at his home. Mr. Winkler was born February 24, 1948, in Watauga County and was the son of the late Grady Thomas Winkler and Mary Ella Wilcox Winkler. Mr. Winkler attended school in Watauga County and was married on December 10, 1967, to the former Christine Campbell Winkler, who survives. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served his country during the Vietnam War. Mr. Winkler was retired from Ryder Trucking Co. where he worked as shop foreman. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Roy Winkler. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 46 years, Christine C. Winkler, one son, Jamie Winkler (Stacy) of New Jersey, and one daughter, Jennifer Winkler (Anthony) of Statesville. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Peter, Liam, Ethan, Matthew, and Danielle, along with one brother, Dale Winkler (Wanda) of Boone, and one sister, Joan Winkler Elmore (Tim) of Statesville. Funeral services for Mr. Winkler will be conducted 11:00 AM Thursday, February 27, 2014, at Trinity Methodist Church with Rev. Mike Duncan officiating. Burial with full military honors will be in the Union Grove Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Wednesday evening from 6:00 until 7:30 PM at Nicholson Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.nicholsonfunerals.com/obituaries and Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family of J.B. Winkler.