James Rodney Breazeale

James Rodney Breazeale, 65, of Elberton entered into rest Monday, December 31, 2012, at his residence. Mr. Breazeale was born in Columbia, SC to the late Betty Ruth Burris and Stephen Breazeale, Jr. James honorably served in the U.S. Navy from Feburary, 1965 until March, 1971. During that time he served on the USS Forrestal aircraft carrier. There was a mishap of a misfired rocket on the USS Forrestal on July 29, 1967 that caused nine major explosions in the first five minutes. James was presented the Presidential Citation for fighting the fire that killed many and also for assisting the safe rescue of Lt. Commander John McCain. Survivors include a brother, Michael LeRoy Breazeale of Elberton; two nieces,Angela B. (Hector) Gill and Lisa Breazeale; and a great-nephew, Cameron Gill, all of Willis, TX. In addition to Mr. Breazeale’s parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Stephen Breazeale, III. A private committal service will be held at a later date. You may express condolences to the family at www.hicksfuneral.com. Arrangements for Mr. James Rodney Breazeale are in the care of Hicks Funeral Home of Elberton.