Lt. Commander James Donald Atherton, USN (Ret.) November 30, 1943 - January 2, 2026
Lt. Commander James Donald Atherton, USN (Ret.), passed away on January 2, 2026. Born on November 30, 1943, James dedicated his life to service, leadership, and family.
James served a distinguished 31 year career in the U.S. Navy, rising from the enlisted ranks to Lieutenant Commander. His service spanned the globe, including posts at the Korean DMZ, the Pentagon, and aboard the USS Ranger during Desert Storm. Following his military retirement in 1994, he embarked on a successful second career as an HR Director for Lowe's, where he was instrumental in opening multiple new locations.
A man of humility and quiet courage, he often insisted he was "Never a Hero https://modernyogacle.com/never-a-hero/ though his legacy suggests otherwise.
James is survived by his beloved wife, Debra Atherton, and his six children: Sherry Robeson (Hugh), James Atherton (Joyce), Joyce Szymanski (Mike), Kristy Freeman (Nathan), Austin Woodward (Heather), and Johnna Atherton. He has numerous grandkids and great grandkids.
He was the son of James and Marcella Atherton of Idaho and is also survived by his siblings, Jan Atherton-Mason and Jerry Atherton.

A Service will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026 with visitation at 9am and Service at 9:30 at Family-Funeral & Cremation, 5627 N. Davis Highway, Pensacola, FL 32503.  Followed by a burial at Barrancas National Cemetery at 11:00 AM.