Jim Tom Hedrick, one of the stars of the Discovery Channel docudrama “Moonshiners,” has died. He was 82.
Sugarlands Distilling Company announced Hedrick’s death in a Facebook post Wednesday, writing, “It’s with heavy hearts we say goodbye to our dear friend Marvin ‘Jim Tom’ Hedrick.”
“Born Christmas Day, 1940, Jim Tom dedicated much of his life to the art of moonshining, becoming a legend in Appalachia along the way,” the statement continued.
“Jim Tom’s well-earned reputation as one of the most skilled moonshiners in the South earned him a role on the hit television program Moonshiners, where his colorful personality endeared Jim Tom to the hearts of millions.”
TMZ reported that a family member said Hedrick died Wednesday morning in Robbinsville, North Carolina.
He reportedly had kidney cancer and had been undergoing dialysis for some time.
Fellow moonshiners Mark Ramsey and Digger Manes posted photos of Hedrick in a nursing home last week.
They also passed along a note from Hedrick’s cousin Tina, who asked supporters for their prayers.
“This is for all of Jimtoms (sic) family & friends that have called, and sent messages asking how he’s doing,” the Sept. 1 post read.
“He is comfortable and resting with no pain right now (which is what we’ve been praying for). Please keep Jimtoms Sister Judy Williams & her husband Noah in your prayers as well, they’ve been with Jimtom every single day, and they are tired, but wouldn’t have it any other way, they love him so much…”
Tina continued, “I got to spend the day with Jimtom yesterday, and my heart hurts seeing him like this, but I was also touched and blessed at the same time. He knows he is loved by so many of you… but most of all he knows where he’s going when he leaves this world for his Heavenly home. I will continue to keep you all updated as I hear from Judy.”
The Post has contacted Ramsey and Manes, as well as Discovery, for comment.
Hedrick appeared on “Moonshiners,” a series that followed moonshiners running their illegal booze business throughout the Appalachian mountains, from 2012 until 2017, per TMZ.
“Jim Tom Hedrick was one of the first veteran moonshiners to truly embrace Sugarlands when we opened our doors,” Ned Vickers, Sugarlands president and founder, said in the Facebook post.
“Gaining the stamp of approval from Jim Tom was instrumental in shaping the authenticity of Sugarlands, and we’re forever indebted to his support and friendship.”
