James Arnold "Jim" Short

James Arnold “Jim” Short

1949 – 2026 `

James Arnold “Jim” Short, 76, of Olive Hill, KY, entered into rest Wednesday morning, July 1, 2026, at his residence surrounded by family. He was born August 8, 1949, in Ashland, KY, to the late Richard Cole Short and Lillian Violet Richards Short.

Jim began his education at Erie School before graduating from Olive Hill High School with the Class of 1967. He continued his studies at Morehead State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1972, and later completed his master’s degree.

After completing his education, he returned to his beloved hometown of Olive Hill where he began a career that reflected his passion for teaching and serving others. From 1973 until his retirement in 1999, he taught shop and science in the Carter County School system. His classroom was more than a place of instruction – it was a room where students learned practical skills, developed confidence, and discovered the value of hard work. Though he retired from the school system, he never stopped being a teacher. Whether instructing children or adults, he found joy in sharing his knowledge of the world, encouraging curiosity, and helping others learn new skills.

His commitment to Olive Hill extended beyond the classroom. He proudly served as Mayor of Olive Hill for nine years, and even through often tumultuous political times, he was honored to serve the town and citizens he loved. As an entrepreneur, he owned and operated several local businesses, including Contractor Supply and Depot Video and he was proud to own and operate a hardware store alongside his father, where they built lasting friendships with customers and neighbors alike.

Jim had an extraordinary ability to play nearly any stringed instrument, including the guitar, banjo, and mandolin. Whether playing bluegrass or gospel music, he found joy in sharing his gifts with his family, friends, and his church community.

If asked what mattered most in his life, however, he would not mention his career, his businesses, or his public service. He would simply tell you that in 1967 he received the gift of the Holy Ghost and was baptized the very next day. His faith became the foundation upon which he built his life. It shaped the way he served his community and faced life’s challenges with unwavering hope. His desire to minister to others never faded. He kept small crosses nearby and made sure that every visitor left with one – a simple but powerful reminder of the faith that had sustained him throughout his life.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by three brothers, Richard Allen Short, John Short, and Michael “Mickey” Short; and two very special lifelong friends, Gary Erwin and Larry Patton.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Madonna Gay Carter Short, whom he married in 1968; two daughters and one son-in-law, Rachel Leanne Short, and Jessica Kathleen Short-Long and her husband Stacy Long; two grandchildren, Orion Benjamin Long and Rose Kylene Thurma Long; and three sisters, Mary Davis, Shirley Lowe, and Violet Sue Lambert.  In addition to these, he leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and family who will miss him and cherish his memory.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 PM, Monday, July 6, 2026, at the Duvall & Moore Funeral Home and Cremation Service with Bro. Rick Crank officiating. Burial will follow at the Short Memory Gardens.

Friends may visit from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sunday, July 5, 2026, and 9:00 AM until the time of service on Monday, July 6, 2026, at the Duvall & Moore Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 149 Whitt Street, Olive Hill, KY.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming love, prayers, acts, and words shared. While it would be impossible to name everyone who has touched their lives, please know that every gesture, no matter how small, has been deeply appreciated.

The family would also like to extend their sincere thanks to Dr. Christian Weigel and Tom Mattingly for their care, compassion, and dedication to Jim. Their kindness and exhaustive attention brought comfort not only to him, but to his entire family.

Jim dearly loved and appreciated every person who walked beside him throughout his life. Your friendship, support, and prayers were a blessing, and you will always be remembered with heartfelt gratitude.

Richard “Rick” Short, Clint Davis, Gregory Jack Lowe, Phillip Kirby Lamber, Joe Lambert, Andrew Rauch, David Cooley, and George Smith will serve as pallbearers.

Chester Knipp, Tony Frazier, and Doug Buckner will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Online condolences can be made at www.duvallandmoore.com.

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