James Morris Lavender Jr.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Morris Lavender Sr. and Frances Fielder Lavender. He is survived by his treasured wife of nearly 58 years, Maxine (Macki) Regina Johnston Lavender. He is also survived by his siblings Marilyn Cook of Jacksonville, Florida and David Lavender of Charleston, Mississippi, as well as his only daughter and son-in-law, Michelle (Missy) Mabie and Gifford (Buddy) Mabie of Oxford, Mississippi. He was a proud grandfather to three grandchildren: Jake, Josh and Hannah Beth. He also had the privilege of being an uncle to a number of nieces and nephews.

Jim graduated from Charleston High School in Charleston, Mississippi in 1960. It was an honor for him to serve his country in the United States Army, from 1961 to 1964. He came back to Mississippi and entered Delta State College where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business degree. As he quickly became aware, accounting was his passion and he studied endless hours to become a Certified Public Accountant. Sometime later, he opened his own practice and he just fully retired a little over two years ago.

Jim and his wife, Macki, lived in numerous states before making Collierville, Tennessee their home for many years. They always enjoyed eating at local restaurants where they were instantly recognized. They are charter members of Covenant Baptist Church in Collierville, Tennessee. In 2024, after requiring more care, Jim became a resident of the Mississippi Veterans Home in Oxford, Mississippi. Macki, soon after, followed Jim to Oxford and moved their church membership to First Baptist Church, Oxford MS.

Jim was an avid sports fan. His team…Ole Miss. He loved watching the Rebels play no matter what ball was being thrown. His enthusiasm for this school was contagious which led to his daughter and two of his grandchildren attending and graduating from the University of Mississippi.

Jim (aka James, Jimmy, Papaw) will be hugely missed. His humor, love and giving nature, we will always remember and keep in our hearts.

A service in loving memory for Jim will be held at Covenant Baptist Church in Collierville on Monday, April 6. Visitation will take place at 1:00. P.M. with the service immediately following at 2:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Covenant Baptist Church.