The world of reality television has a unique way of endearing its stars to our hearts. People feel connected with them and even form an unseen bond as well. One such beloved figure was Jim Tom Hedrick.
The old man from the popular TV series ‘Moonshiners.’ He was known for his expert moonshining skills and charismatic personality. But now, his journey will have a permanent full stop as the TV star has passed away.
Through this story, let’s take a look at his journey from the start till the end.
On Wednesday, 6th September 2023, a family member of Jim Tom Hedrick announced that he had passed away in Robbinsville, NC, at the age of 82. According to family members, Moonshiners fame Jim Tom Hedrick had been suffering from kidney cancer and undergoing dialysis for an extended period.
Who Is Jim Tom Hedrick
Jim Tom Hedrick was a well-known personality who gained fame after joining the popular reality TV show “Moonshiners.” Moonshiner is an American reality-based documentary, ‘Docudrama.’
The show deals with the life of people who work in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia to produce the liquor ‘moonshine.’ The show first aired on December 6, 2011, and is still going on smoothly.
Jim Tom Hedrick joined the show during its second season in 2012. He was loved by the audience for his expertise in the craft of moonshining and his captivating presence on the show. Eventually, he starred in the show for 5 years in total, from 2012 to 2017.
Jim Tom showed his deep-rooted knowledge of distilling spirits. This was one reason why he was portrayed as a mentor to other moonshiners in the series. He was one of the genuine and a very down-to-earth person, which charmed the fans. Jim soon became an integral part of the Moonshiners community.
Jim was also loved for his storytelling and his manners while speaking to others. People loved how he showed his genuine passion for the craft and the camaraderie he formed with fellow moonshiners.
Throughout the show, Tom Hedrick kept sharing his insights, tips, and tricks on making moonshine. This showcased the rich tradition for this intriguing trade and Hedrick’s skills in the process of making moonshine.
The Legend Passed Away at 82
On September 6th, 2023, Jim Tom Hedrick passed away in Robbinsville, North Carolina. The news was announced by a family member of Hedrick. The family didn’t provide many details about the situation, but they reported that Jim was suffering from kidney cancer. Hedrick had been receiving dialysis for an extended period.
It was also revealed that initially, he was treated from home, but the past month was very serious, hence he was moved to the hospital. The legend is now receiving tributes from all the Moonshine lovers around the world. People are sharing love and condolences with the family while remembering Hedrick for his style and demeanor.
The founder and president of Sugarlands, Ned Vickers, also came forward with a heart-touching tribute for Jim, saying,
“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.”
We pay our heartfelt tribute to the legend! May his soul rest in peace.
