James "Tommy" Howard Scholten

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Howard Thomas Scholten, lovingly known as Tommy. Formerly of Gainesville, Georgia, Tommy lived out his final days with peace and dignity at Brown Health & Rehabilitation in Royston, Georgia. He was called to his Heavenly home on October 28th, 2024, at the age of 74, surrounded by his loved ones. Tommy was only one day shy of his 75th birthday.

Tommy was born in Baltimore, Maryland in 1949 to mother Betty Carnell Baker Scholten and was later adopted by his step-father, Ray Scholten, both of whom preceded him in death. Tommy is survived by his daughter, Dana Scholten-Rodgers, son in law, Kevin Rodgers, grandchildren, Lauren and Grayson Rodgers, and chosen family, Debra Poole and Ashton Watson. 

As a child, Tommy excelled academically. He loved to tell how he skipped not one, but two grades! When telling this story, he would emphasize TWO by holding up two fingers. Tommy had a passion for motorcycles. His favorite was a Triumph that he custom built himself and painted a shimmering Plum Crazy Purple. Tommy was a gifted mechanic and machinist. Tommy taught his daughter how to work on motorcycles as a child, and both cherish their fond memories of working on motorcycles together. In his later years, Tommy gave up riding motorcycles, but instead decorated his road scooter with Harley Davidson stickers. 

Tommy was also an avid road-tripper. He loved to pick a road and drive just to see where he would end up. He shared stories of his travel's spelunking in caves, trips to the beach, a Caribbean cruise, and even a helicopter tour of Panama City Beach. Tommy loved the simple things in life, such as movies, camping, music, and a good Cuban sandwich. 

Tommy is remembered as someone funny, humble, and loving. Those who had the privilege to know and love Tommy share stories of him bringing flowers for their birthdays, sharing the love of Southern Rock listening to the Allman Brothers Band.

At the family request, no formal services will be held. We ask that you keep the Scholten family in your thoughts and prayers. 

You may send condolences, sign the online register, send flowers, or light a memory candle in his honor as a source of comfort to the family.

Arrangements entrusted to Mack's Funeral Home and Cremation Service - Hartwell Chapel.

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