James was born and raised in Columbus, Ga. He played football and graduated from Hardaway High School; then went on to play collegiate ball at Southern Mississippi. After a short service in the Army reserves, he began his career as a plumber. He met his wife Toni Gallops, raising 3 children together. During this time, he coached little league baseball and football for his boys as well as many other young athletes in the area. James was an avid Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Falcons, and Hawks fan. He also ran a successful plumbing business for over 30 years.
James is survived by his wife Toni J. Gallops, his 3 children, Hudson Gallops (Tiffany), Adam Gallops, and Brock Gallops (Candi), his 4 grandchildren, Rayna Gallops, Stephi Gallops, Christopher Gallops, and Harper Gallops, his 3 great grandchildren, Nicholas Thompson, Brynnlee Thompson, and Tyler Gallops, his siblings Pat Sanders, Ray Gallops (Wanda), and Brian Gallops (Michelle).
Visitation for family and friends will be held on March 2, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. at the funeral home. Funeral services will take place at 2:00 pm Monday, March 2, 2026 in the Fisher Chapel of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia.
James will be laid to rest in the Chapel of the Pines Mausoleum at Parkhill Cemetery.