James Sistrunk

Jimmy passed away from a heart attack and met Jesus on Wednesday, April 15th. He was 80 years old. He was born a Wilmingtonian on May 15, 1945 and is an integral part of its history. He graduated from New Hanover High School in 1964, served in the Army in the Vietnam war from 1966-1968 and retired from DuPont after 32 years. He was married to Nellie Powell Rogers for 34 years until her passing in 2012, and she was his “Little Dove”. He is also preceded in death by his parents James Bowen and Catherine Plott and older brother, Robert.

He is survived by his two stepdaughters, Lisa Rogers Register and husband Tony of Wilmington, and Tina Rogers Glisson and husband, Bryan of Shelby. He is also survived by his brother Irving and wife, Jennifer and their two daughters, Jordan and Grace, and by his sister-in-law, Linda and her son, Robbie.

He invested in the lives of his grandchildren and greats: Jonathan and Crystal Glisson and sons Will, Jackson, Zion James and Abe; Drew Register and partner, Zane Fadul; Elizabeth (Glisson) and Matthew Surles and daughters Lydia and Ada; Leah (Register) and Rob Casio and daughter Daisy, and Seth and Kenzie Register and sons Grey and Wesley. He will be missed.

Jimmy surrendered his life to Christ as a young adult, and truly desired to serve Him. Jesus was not just his Savior, but Jimmy made sure He was also Lord of his life. He often shared stories of his life before knowing Jesus, testifying of the power of God to transform us into all God created us to be. He knew that his Redeemer, Jesus truly lived and conducted his life with that Hope, studying the scriptures and feeding his soul with that Promise. He told everyone about Jesus and desired to make heaven crowded.

Jimmy loved fishing the waterways and simply observing and talking with people, those he knew and didn’t. He loved people and had many friends. Before becoming disabled, He was an active participant in Mentoring for the Masters Bible study group and was very active at Myrtle Grove Presbyterian Church. He loved singing in the choir. He and his wife, Nellie were also a part of a Life Group there for many years, with whom they navigated life together, serving each other and those around them. He was cared for by the Body of Myrtle Grove long after he was able to attend.

A celebration of his life service will be held at Myrtle Grove Presbyterian church on May 16th at 10:00 with Rev.’s Bryan and Jonathan Glisson officiating. The family wishes to extend special thanks to two of his closest friends, Bill Hill and Becky Finnacaro for their love and care for Jimmy. Memories may be shared at www.andrewsmortuary.com