James Donald Shirah Sr.

James was born on January 28, 1940 to the late Achie and Ruby Shirah in Geneva, Alabama. He attended and graduated from Geneva High School before spending most of his life in Columbus, Georgia. James was a hard worker, he was employed with Allied Universal Security Services as a security guard for Auburn University before his passing; however, he did dedicate 30+ years for Fieldcrest/Cannon-Pillowtex in their textile field. He believed that if you got paid to do a job, you had to do it to the best of your ability.

James was a man of faith, he was a member of Gentian Baptist Church for approximately 10 years. He absolutely loved listening to gospel music. He was a caring man with a sweet personality, he was always thankful for what anyone did for him whether it was big or small. James loved to talk to anyone and everyone about everything he could, he was as friendly as could be. He spent time coaching little league baseball and loved Babe Ruth and Pop Warner football for over 30 years, he was an avid Alabama fan.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Achie and Ruby Shirah, his six brothers, Albert, Earnest, Robert, Lambert, Bill, and Ben, as well as his one sister Ann, and his granddaughter Hillary D. Shirah.

Survivors include his son James D. Shirah Jr. (Donnie), his daughters Wanda Hall and Cathy Weldon, grandsons Matthew and Nathaniel Shirah, great-grandsons Bryce, Brian, Brayden, and Jedidiah Shirah, great-granddaughters Brianna S. Schaul (Zack), Marleigh and Aria Shirah, great-great-grandchildren Daniella Shirah and Kenan Schaul, as well as several nieces, nephews, and close friends.

The family would like to give thanks to Gentiva Home Hospice for their care to James, especially CNA Rita, RN Sandi, and CNA Kathy who was there during his last days.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025 at 10:00 AM in Fisher Chapel at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Rd., Columbus, Georgia, 31907, with a celebration of life service to follow. James will be laid to rest at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Rd, Columbus, Georgia, 31907.