James Franklin Dennerline , Jr.

To view the memorial Service for JD, please copy the following link to your web browser. https://vimeo.com/live/710433962/stream

James F. Dennerline, known affectionately as JD, was born in Chicago, and raised in Dallas before moving to the southeast.  He found his passion and lifelong friendships working for Houlihan’s here in Atlanta. From Atlanta to North Royalton to West Palm Beach to Atlanta again, JD helmed the back of the house with great pride and precision. He worked his way up through the Gilbert Robinson company to Executive Chef, and eventually finished out his 40-year career at Chequers Seafood Grill. JD thrived everyday he was in the kitchen and enjoyed nothing more than seeing his family, friends, coworkers, and patrons savor his meals.  JD took delight in cooking for holidays, special events, as well as those everyday comfort foods. Esteemed by his employees and coworkers, they said hands down, JD was the boss they all wanted.…respectful, inclusive, knowledgeable, supportive, and fun. He would do anything for his crew and was happy to help anyone who needed it.

JD’s family was the luckiest. He was a strong and steadfast listener who gave sound advice. He was an avid golfer. He also enjoyed playing pool, poker, chess, and sometimes even pranks.  Some of his quick wit and comebacks are legendary among those who knew him.  

To say he loved his wife Paula was an understatement. Through thick and thin they were always committed and loving. He was beyond heartbroken when she passed but continued to honor her for the rest of his days by placing a fresh rose beside her urn every week.

JD was also a keen collector with expertise in coins and vintage golf balls. He also ran a home business that saw him finding antique golf clubs and restoring them to glory for sale to discerning collectors. His love of saving and restoration extended to living things, with him rescuing numerous animals ranging from wild creatures such as an injured duckling and baby owl to his beloved rescue dog Sophie, who brought him loyalty, joy, and companionship every day they were together.

JD’s family is heartbroken. His children, Daniel and Melissa, will miss him every day. JD, his sister Debbie, and brother-in-law John have been three peas in a pod for 50 years. Brothers Dean and Don too will miss their brother dearly. Jenny, Dwayne, Saxby, Shelby, Jessica, Ryan, Zoe, Zane, Cindy, Logan, Julie, Devon, Matt, Brandon, Danya, and Kenny along with all of the extended Dennerline, Maret, Marzullo and Shiltz families, and all dear friends who worked for Gilbert & Robinson, Houlihan’s, and Chequers have lost a part of our hearts.

JD was a shining star of dedication, friendship, and unwavering stability to us all. He taught everyone through stellar example, kindness, and understanding. Your love will be remembered and missed forever. We love you always.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation in his honor to your local Red Cross or no-kill animal shelter; both save lives and that would make JD so proud.