Obituaries

James “Jim” Allen Tubbs also lovingly referred to “Ponytail” or “Blue Eyes” by his friends, 72, of Ft. Mitchell, KY, passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Born in Rochester, NY, he was the son of the late Charles and Gertrude Tubbs.

Jim proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era and was stationed in Kaiserslautern, Germany, where he met his future ex-wife, Elke. He took great pride in his military service and cared deeply for homeless veterans.

A lifelong carpenter, Jim was exceptionally skilled with his hands, able to build entire structures—including electrical work—on his own. He was also proficient with cars and truly a jack of all trades. He took pride in his craftsmanship and could spot even the smallest imperfection, down to 1/8 of an inch.

Jim was a devoted father and loved being a “Girl Dad” to his three daughters, Niki, Jessica, and Jaime, loving them unconditionally, making time to make memorable experiences for each of them.

For Niki, it was the time they spent together in long, meaningful conversation that meant the most. Whether over a game of Backgammon or sharing a meal at Waffle House, those moments of talking about anything and everything will always be remembered as a cherished gift she shared with her father and best friend.

Jessica, a devoted animal lover, will fondly recall his support in fostering dogs, and the many hours they spent together caring for them. Over the years, they opened their hearts and home to an incredible 30 dogs, ensuring each one found a safe and comfortable space until a forever home could be found, sparing them from shelters.

Jim also nurtured a deep love of nature and the outdoors in his youngest, Jaime. He introduced her to camping and hiking at an early age, creating a bond that will forever be remembered with every sunrise, hike, and camping trip she takes. The joy they shared exploring the natural world together remains a lasting testament to their special father-daughter connection.

He was a kind and generous man, always willing to help others, often willing to give the shirt off his back. Jim had a love for music, especially Kenny G and Christopher Cross, with “Sailing” being his favorite song. He was also an avid reader, loving a good story. He enjoyed sweets, a good cup of steaming hot coffee, and spending time at Home Depot, which he affectionately called his “candy store,” always insisting on parking in the contractor lot.

He is survived by his daughters, Niki Freimuth, Jessica (Bob) Penney, and Jaime (Steve) Johnson; grandchildren, Alex (Brian) Lipscomb, Nick Cooper, Christian Cooper, and Logan Freimuth; great-grandchildren, Lance and Leon Lipscomb; and his devoted companion and pal, Teddy.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Condolences may be expressed on Facebook or at SerenityFuneralCare.com.

Jim will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and dedication to his family, friends, and community—a man who lived fully and gave freely.

The “Blue Collar Legend” has been called home.