Jimmy Lee James

Jimmy Lee James

On July 7, 2023, Jimmy Lee James, of Saluda, South Carolina, died peacefully at home with his daughter by his side at Lake Oconee where he resided during his final months in Greensboro, Georgia at the age of 75.

Jimmy Lee was born September 9, 1947 in Midway, Georgia where he attended Liberty County Schools in both Midway and Hinesville, Georgia. His journey in life took him from his humble, yet impactful beginnings in Georgia (which he would often reflect on his precious memories there to others and the stories would ensue as he shared them with listeners every chance he got) to his years spent in Syracuse, New York and eventually settling in Saluda.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dan James and Annie Mae Whaley-James and Siblings, George, Charlie, Betty and Joey James. 

Jimmy Lee is survived by his children: Donna Evette Adams of Lake Oconee, Georgia and Kesley Robinson of Saluda, South Carolina; His Siblings: Dan (Victoria) of Brunswick, Georgia, William (Agnes), David both of Atlanta, Georgia, John of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Gloria Williams of Midway, Georgia and Terrance James of Hinesville, Georgia; two Uncles: Richard Green of Trenton, New Jersey and Norman Whaley of Charleston, South Carolina;  one Aunt, Naomi Whaley of New York, New York; a Special Niece and Caretaker, Marquita (Elliott) Etheridge of Saluda, South Carolina; nine Grandchildren and two Great Grandchildren; 

Jimmy Lee also spiritually adopted three daughters, Bonnie, Trisha and Camilla Robinson, all of Saluda, South Carolina; He leaves a host of Loving Nephews, Nieces, Cousins and Close Friends.

Jimmy Lee loved all sports, but baseball was particularly his favorite of all along with his ‘hobby’ of singing . .  .  he would joke that his father had enough children to form a baseball team, but his dad, who loved music, decided to form a singing group then a quartet of his sons, which was going well until he realized that none of them could hold the notes to sing the parts which is one of his favorite stories he lovingly would share. His father, Dan, was his greatest influence on him, spiritually, as he taught him the strengths of being a God fearing man and led by example through his walk with Jesus Christ and Jimmy saw him live it out daily; Jimmy, himself, followed suit, ultimately, helping to raise three of his nieces, along with several others in the Saluda area. He just loved helping others and that brought him a certain peace and gratitude. Jimmy Lee and some of his group of friends helped to form a social club, Poor Boys Unlimited, which donated their time along with many contributions and gifts to help a substantial number of members of the Saluda Community. Watching Westerns was one of his favorite pastimes. Mr. James was a deep thinker and was constantly in meditative thought; his mind was brilliant as he was always swift to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.

Mr. James retired from International Paper and was an entrepreneur with a store in the Saluda area for several years. 

Jimmy Lee was a culinary master in his own rite with his meat smoker and we will miss his amazing dinners and his specialty,  superb macaroni and cheese. He loved music, especially Gospel Hymns which he sang vigorously until he departed; he was always up for a good old fashioned church  revival or a gospel or quartet concert. Jimmy Lee never met a stranger; his humor and keen wit drew in everyone he met. He also liked to travel when he was able. Jimmy Lee enjoyed spending time over the phone with his family, especially his telephone conferences with all of his brothers and his sister; he deeply loved them all so very much!

A Celebration of Life will be 12 Noon, Saturday, July 22, 2023 at the Bethlehem Baptist Church with burial in the church cemetery. The body will be placed in the church at 11 a.m.

Viewing will be 3-6 pm. Friday, July 21, 2023 at the funeral home.

The family is receiving friends at the home of his son, Kelsey Robinson 152 Helen Drive, Saluda, SC.

Pray for this family as they go through their hour of bereavement.

Butler and Sons Funeral Home is honored to serve the James Family.

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