Arthur Douglas Jumper, Sr., 94, of Booneville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, and went to his heavenly home. He was born September 8, 1931, to Samuel “Sam” Jumper and Irene Koon Jumper.
Douglas graduated from Jumpertown High School in 1949. Soon after, he married the love of his life, Martha Yates Jumper, beginning a devoted marriage of 70 years. Early in life, he worked alongside his father in farming before pursuing other opportunities. He and Martha later moved north, where he gained the experience that prepared him to start his own business.
In 1960, Douglas returned to Booneville and founded S & J Steel Builders. He later established S & J Ready Mix, where his son began working with him at age 13. In later years, he opened J&J Properties and welcomed his grandson, Doug, into the business, continuing a strong family legacy. Douglas also played a key role in the growth of local industry during the 1960s, helping establish several businesses in North Mississippi, including Bench Craft and Belmont Homes.
He founded the Tiger Den Coffee Club in the 1960s and remained an active member throughout his life. He served as Executor of the Donald Franks Foundation at Northeast Mississippi Community College and was a founding supporter of Campus Country and he also played a huge part in helping students receive their education. He also served for 30 years on the Executive Board of Directors of the Bank of Mississippi.
Douglas had a deep love for Ole Miss athletics. He was a loyal supporter who enjoyed traveling to games and was a charter member of the John Vaught Society and a member of the M Club.
He enjoyed golfing, traveling, and time with family. He especially cherished his great-grandsons, who held a special place in his heart. He was an active member and Elder of the West Booneville Church of Christ.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026, at McMillan Funeral Home with Minister Ward Hogland and Minister Jacob Jordan officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Douglas is survived by his son, Arthur “Art” Douglas Jumper, Jr. and wife Mitzi; his grandson, Arthur Douglas “Doug” Jumper III and wife Saray; his great-grandchildren, Arthur Jumper and Sam Jumper; a host of nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Dr. Lawrence Dennis, with whom he shared a love for classic cars and fast engines. The family expresses sincere gratitude for the compassion he has shown during this time.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Irene Jumper; his wife of 70 years, Martha Yates Jumper; his brother, Dennis Jumper; and his sister, Leista Jumper Belue.
Pallbearers will be Sam Tull, Ron Shinault, Carol Ivy, Dewayne Thomas, Hal Wright, Dr. Lawrence Dennis, Mackie Bullard, and Craig Waddle.
Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Tiger Den Coffee Club and the Ole Miss Athletic Staff.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the West Booneville Church of Christ Ward Hogland Bible Library, P.O. Box 890, Booneville, MS 38829.
