Jimmy Wayne Cleckler

Jimmy Wayne Cleckler, age 79 of Clanton, passed away on December 13, 2025, at Diversicare in Montgomery, Alabama, following a very brief battle with cancer. He was born in Chilton County on September 13, 1946, the son of the late Louise Cleckley Kirkland.

For most of his life, Jimmy made his living as a truck driver, running routes that carried him all across this great country. The open road suited him well, and so did the music that kept him company along the way. He had a deep admiration for classic country and southern gospel music and could often be found sitting in his car with Loretta Lynn, George Jones, or—his favorite—Elvis playing wide open. He took great joy in seeing people smile or wave when they recognized the music drifting through the air.

Affectionately known throughout Clanton as simply “JimJim,” Jimmy was a familiar and beloved presence around town. He frequently visited the Chilton County Courthouse, where he enjoyed spending time with his dear friend, former Circuit Clerk Glenn McGriff. He also loved visiting with former Sheriff Kevin Davis and current Sheriff John Shearon, whether in their offices or out and about, always ready to engage in some good-natured ribbing and conversation.

Late in life, having outlived much of his family, Jimmy found a new sense of family in the staff of Ellison Memorial Funeral Home. Many mornings, he could be found sitting in the parking lot, waiting to barter a price to clean up after the previous evening’s service. In his later years, Aaron and Tracy Ellison became his devoted caretakers. Jimmy found great joy in watching their boys—Jace, Aaden, Coven, and Emmett—grow and play, often affectionately calling the youngest ones “Jack Rabbit.”

The Ellison family is deeply grateful to Glenn McGriff; Sheriff John Shearon; Faye Pate, who made sure Jimmy had a meal when needed along the way; and the countless friends throughout Clanton and Chilton County who kept a watchful eye on him and helped him along life’s road.

Jimmy is survived by his brother, David Kirkland of Clanton; his caregivers, Aaron and Tracy Ellison of Jemison and their sons; and countless friends who loved him and looked after him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Louise Kirkland, and his sister, Tammy Hackett.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. from the Chapel of Ellison Memorial Funeral Home, with Rev. J. Aaron Ellison and Rev. Tim Scott officiating.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Burial will follow in Cane Creek Baptist Cemetery in Clanton, Alabama.

“The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.”
Psalm 121:8 (KJV)

Final care and arrangements are entrusted to Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, Alabama.