James Merlin Christopher Jr.

Jim was a proud founding member of the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection in Rainbow City, Alabama, where he found community, faith, and friendship for many decades. A true member of the Greatest Generation, Jim served with honor in the U.S. Army’s Third Infantry Division, bravely fighting in Africa, Italy, and France. His courage and sacrifice earned him the Purple Heart and several other commendations of the wounds he carried and the bravery he showed in service to his country.

Born December 15, 1924, to Jimmy and Carrie Bess Christopher, Jim lived a long, meaningful life filled with resilience, integrity, and quiet strength. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sallie Bellenger Christopher, with whom he shared 30 beautiful years of marriage.

Jim’s legacy lives on in his daughter Constance (Connie) Christopher and son James (Jim) David (Sharon) Christopher; his stepchildren Carolyn Voltz Hasser (Jimmy), Sallie B. Krels Wruk (Mark), and Blair Voltz (Amy); his 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy; and his dear friend Claudia Jermyn.

Jim will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family, his service to his country and church, and the steady, kind-hearted spirit he brought into every room. He leaves behind a family rooted in his values, grateful for his life, his love, and his example