James Jeter

James Jeter was born in Star, Texas, on September 15, 1921. He was an only child, raised by his Mother and two stepfathers. His father, whom he never knew, died in 1931. Jim joined the Merchant Marines during World War 2, and earned the title of Golden Gloves boxer during this time. When stationed in Malaysia, he contracted malaria but was able to overcome the disease by the War's end. He met Hope Adams, his future wife, while both were serving in the Armed Forces. During the early 1940's, he married Odette Whiting, a woman he met in Australia, and they had a son, Chris Jeter, together. The marriage ended and by 1946, Jim and Hope were married and had two sons, Steve and James Michael. Sometime after 1949, Jim and Hope's marriage ended, and Jim focused on his acting career. He went to New York, where he met Chris Wilson, who years later would become his 4th and last wife. During the late 1950's and early 60's, Jim became friends with some of the biggest names in Hollywood - Paul Newman