Saltville, Virginia

James "Sandy" Otis Null, Jr. passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon, Virginia.

Born in Saltville, Virginia, Sandy was the son of the late James Otis Null, Sr. and Margaret Davidson Null.

Sandy proudly served his country for many years in the United States Army, retiring after a distinguished military career that took him around the world. A Vietnam War veteran, he courageously served as a combat medic, dedicating himself to caring for his fellow soldiers under some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable. He later answered the call to serve again during Operation Desert Storm. Throughout his military career, Sandy and his beloved wife made homes in several places, including Hawaii, North Carolina, and Germany. In addition to his service as a medic, he also served as a Material Supply and Handling Specialist for over 17 years, ensuring those around him had the resources they needed to accomplish their mission.

A proud patriot through and through, Sandy had a deep love for the United States and the freedoms he dedicated his life to protecting. When he wasn't serving his country, he found peace in the great outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who cherished time spent in the mountains, and he was a lifelong firearms enthusiast who appreciated both their history and craftsmanship. Above all, Sandy was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother whose greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren. Whether sharing stories, teaching life lessons, or simply enjoying their company, those moments became some of his most treasured memories. His steady presence, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by three sisters, Debbie, Vanessa, and Judy.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 58 years of marriage, Barbara Freeman Null; his two children, Pamela Null Renfrow and husband Michael of Hope Mills, NC, and David Null of Saltville, VA; brother, Curtis “Jerry” Null of Saltville, VA; sister, Linda Wymer and husband Michael of Marion, VA; three grandchildren, Brittni Clere and husband Dakota of Jacksonville, NC, Courtney Rivera and husband Steven of Beaufort, SC, and Taylor Renfrow; four great-grandchildren, Aubrie, Sage, “JJ”, and Dean.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Henderson Funeral Home.  Military rites will be rendered by the United States Army Honor Guard and V.F.W. Post 4667.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. The D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of James “Sandy” Otis Null, Jr.