Dr. James W. Estes

Doctor James W. Estes, admired, respected, and loved by patients, colleagues, friends, and most especially his family, died on May 18th, 2026 at the age of 88. A man is neither the list of his deeds nor merely the weight of his name, yet Jim Estes was a man of many accomplishments and a generous reputation.

He was born in the town of Gay, Georgia in November of 1937 to Margaret and Royce Estes, attended Emory University and the University of Georgia, going on to graduate from the Medical School of Georgia. He served in VietNam as a medical officer in Da Nang. As a vascular surgeon, he founded Vascular Surgery PC, serving patients at Northside, St. Joseph’s, and Georgia Baptist Hospital. He found a close friend and professional partner in fellow surgeon Mark Mittenthal. He served as Chief of Vascular Surgery, Director of the Northside Vascular Laboratory, and Chairman of the Medical Staff at Northside Hospital, and worked relentlessly to perfect his surgical skills.

With his cherished wife Barbara Estes he travelled the world, and explored art, gardening, golf, dancing, and croquet. They retired to Highland Falls Country Club in Highlands, NC, where he served on the board and was head of Greens and Grounds for a time there. He greatly enjoyed golf and croquet and was a club champion in both sports. He also served on the board of the Peggy Crosby Community Service Center. Most important, though, was the impact he had on those he befriended. In the words of good friend Fred Gehrish, “I am grateful for Jim’s friendship, mentorship, and the impact he had on my life. I love him and will never forget what he’s meant to me.”

In the past decade he and Barbara moved to Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community where he was beloved by staff. He drank life to the lees, and enjoyed all times greatly. He possessed great wit, charisma, and tremendous character. Wherever he went, whomever he met, he charmed and was honored by them all.

He is survived by his wife Barbara, his children Justin, Crista, and Mettrie, his grandchildren Nora, Price, Ella, Isabelle, and George, as well as innumerable family members, friends, and associates. Even in his final years, though made weak by time, he was yet strong in will, and strove every day to seek knowledge, to find joy, and not to yield to human fate. His wry humor, keen mind, and relentless spirit, while never forgotten, will be sorely missed.

Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the family.