James McCann, a former top executive at Bridgestone/Firestone Inc., died Nov. 22, 2018, in Franklin, Tenn., after a short illness. He was 88.
He was born on Feb. 25, 1930, the son of the late Clemon and Frances McCann. He joined Bridgestone in 1986 after retiring as Asia Pacific vice president at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.
McCann served as executive vice president of sales and marketing at Bridgestone (USA) Inc., then was promoted to CEO and president. In 1990, following Bridgestone's acquisition of Firestone Tire & Rubber Co., he was made president and chief operating officer of Bridgestone/Firestone (BFS). In 1991, he added vice chairman to his list of titles.
McCann was instrumental in urging construction of the company's $350 million truck tire plant in Tennessee, and in moving BFS headquarters from Akron to Nashville. He retired from BFS on Dec. 31, 1992.
"James proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force," according to his obituary. "He was a gifted and talented man, but his greatest accomplishment was his love for his family."
McCann was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Marilyn. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 66 years, Shirley McCann; daughter, Judy Alton; sons Michael (Alexandria) McCann and Patrick (Wendy) McCann; six grandchildren; sister Sally McCann; and many other relatives and friends.
