Over 100 family, friends and well-wishers gathered in the NHC dining room Friday afternoon to congratulate veteran James Hise on the special occasion of his 100th birthday.

During the celebration, Hise received letters of congratulations from several federal elected officials, including a letter from President Donald Trump, a flag flown over the US Capitol, and Vice Mayor Jerry Mathis declared April 10, 2026, to be ‘James Hise Day in Tullahoma’. Several family members and friends spoke very kindly and lovingly about Hise. Later, the crowd sang a rousing rendition of ‘Happy Birthday ‘ in honor of Hises’ 100th birthday.

Hise was born in his grandmother’s house in Forest, Indiana on April 10, 1926. He is the oldest of seven brothers and one sister. Hise moved to Tullahoma in 1928. He married the late Norma Jean Thompson in 1950. They were married for 53 years. Hise has seven children, 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Hise turned 18 on April 10, 1944, and joined the army that day. He served two years in both England and Germany. As a Private First Class, Hise did MP duty, was trained in Light Artillery and carried ammunition belts for the foot soldiers shooting machine guns. During his time in Europe, Hise served in the George L. Patton 3rd 319th Infantry, 80th Troop Command, Central Europe and once paraded in front of General Patton.

During his military service, Hise earned the Good Conduct Medal, Army Occupation Medal, European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon and the World War II Victory Ribbon. He returned to America on August 11, 1946.

Hise had a diverse 45year work career. After his military service, he worked at Lannom Manufacturing on West Lincoln Street. He then moved to Chicago, where he met his wife and worked as a draftsman designing bank safes and office equipment.

Hise returned to Tullahoma and worked at Norman Buick and later at the Union 76 Station across from Dairy Queen. In the 1970’s, he owned and operated for nearly 20 years a transmission shop on East Volney Street.

Hise married his childhood sweetheart on June 11, 2007. In retirement, Hise grew vegetable gardens and enjoyed cooking, photography, and reading his Bible. He moved to NHC in June 2024 after a fall. Hise is a long-time member of the New Center Grove Church of Christ.

When asked what he attributes his longevity, his daughter, Barbara Birdsong, offered, “His love for the Lord and his cheerful outlook. He loves everyone and does not waiver to make sure they know that.” Birdsong added, “He sincerely appreciates everyone that assists him at NHC and he tells them.”

-Kyle Murphy photo