Jimmy James

Jimmy Donald "Don" James, also known as "J.D.", born on June 13, 1935, in Amory, passed away peacefully at his home in Amory on July 9, 2026, from Alzheimer's, at the age of 91.

Don was the son of Methody Criss James, an immigrant from Macedonia, and Eliza Cheek James of Smithville, both of whom preceded him in death. He was the first grandson born to Criss and Vasilka James. Don was also preceded in death by his younger brother, Sidney Neal James, PhD. Don held a special bond with his aunt Christina James, whom he loved like a mother.

A graduate of Amory High School, class of 1953, Don furthered his education at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, graduating in 1957 with a degree in chemical engineering. Don lived and worked in several cities before moving to Orwigsburg, PA. He retired at age 75 from Honeywell, having worked in chemical engineering for approximately 50 years. Don approached his work with the same organization and meticulous attention that characterized every aspect of his life.

Don was married to Margalo Greene James. Their thirty years together were filled with devotion and joy, and her passing left a significant void in his heart. Margalo and he had moved back to Amory in 2010 to be with family.

Family remained at the center of Don's world. He is survived by his sons, Mark Criss James and children of Plymouth, Indiana, and Clay Criss James of Greenville, SC as well as his step-daughters Marlana Samples (Bud) and Mona Young (Rodney) both of Smithville, and his stepson Mark Williams (Rhonda) of Caledonia. His extended family includes special cousins Paul Stephen James of Amory and Jeanette James Keyser of Calhoun City, sister-in-law Cathy Bercegeay James, nieces Jeanne James, M.D., and Joelle Phillips (Brant), all of Nashville, and numerous cousins of the Bourland, Caldwell, Coluccelli, Hill, James, Kynerd, Lee, and Leech families. Don's steadfast presence and compassion will be missed by all who knew him.

His interests extended beyond his professional life. He was a passionate collector of antique guns and had a deep appreciation for the genealogy of his family, having made a lengthy trip to visit the family home in the rural mountains of Macedonia during his early life. He was always eager to share stories of his ancestors and the legacy they left behind. He found great joy in the companionship of his beloved dog, Tori, often taking rides together and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.

Those who knew him recall his extraordinary organization and meticulous nature, balanced by a warm and loving spirit.

In his later years, Don's life was enriched by the dedicated care provided by principal caregivers, Teresa Howell Burdine, Becky Kennedy, and Destiny Hulsey Reeder, for whom his family offers a special thank you.

Family and friends are invited to honor Don's life at a memorial service on July 28, 2026, from 2 to 3 p.m. at E. E. Pickle Funeral Home in Amory with Rev. Wesley Pepper of First Global Methodist Church officiating.

Memorials/Donations may be made to the Amory Humane Society or a charity of choice.