Our hearts are breaking as we lost a great compass in our family ...Jimmy Hines. Jimmy was the 97-year-old grandfather of Jim Durrett, our distiller.

Jimmy was the inspiration behind Jimmy's Bourbon for the distillery, but more importantly, he was a guiding light to his family and so many that crossed his path. A true character that could weave a story with his wit and keep you on your toes wondering what he was going to say next.

Jimmy was a torpedo bomber pilot in the South Pacific in World War II. The goggles on the bottle of Jimmy's Bourbon are an homage to his service and many successful and safe flights into danger.

He was a true icon and hero. Funny and charming Jimmy swept Birdie off her feet as soon as he got back from the war and they have been inseparable ever since. Jimmy, we will miss your joyful spirit and wry smile. Heaven has gained an awesome soul. We thank God for the mark Jimmy made on this world.

We love you, Jimmy.

All of us in the Kiepersol family are lifting up prayers of gratitude and peace for Holli, Jim, Dusti, and their families.