James was a graduate of University of Memphis and a fraternity member of Alpha Tau Omega.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert A. Sandifer.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Leslie Sandifer; his son Ethan Sandifer and wife Deidre; his mother, Marion Sandifer; his sister, Bobette Thompson and husband Tommy; his brother Rob Sandifer; his nephews, Blair Thompson, Alex Miller; and his niece Whitney Miller.
Memorials may be made to the Hendersonville Search and Rescue.
Services for Mr. Sandifer are pending at this time.