James was loved by many neighbors and friends and will be missed by the Richland community. He is survived by his wife, Sarah Frances Sumrall; children and their spouses, Sandra and C. W. Slone and Wayne and Angie Sumrall; his grandchildren and their spouses, Andy Byers and wife Sara Bright, Natalie Byers and spouse Jay Edwards, Ashley Sumrall Di Cristina and husband Calogero Di Cristina, and Amanda Sumrall and fiancé Ranjit Poonnen; and great-grandchildren Ona, George, Mae, Ari, and T. K.
Born to Mary Frances Randal and Archie Sumrall on April 24th, 1934, James was raised in Ellisville, Mississippi. He graduated from Jones County Agricultural High School in 1954, joined the United States Army in 1955, and served until 1958. James completed a machinery certificate from Hinds Jr. College.
James was self-employed for many years until working in security at Mississippi Baptist Hospital. In retirement, James continued serving his community by providing baked goods to friends and neighbors and volunteering at the Richland Methodist Food Pantry until he wasn’t physically able.
James was a sweet and kind soul known for his calm demeanor and genuine care for others in his family, church, and community. He loved to serve and make people happy. James had many roles as a devoted father, husband, uncle, and friend; among those, “Papaw” was the one he held with utmost pride.
James had many joys in life, one of which always brought a smile, being the biggest bulldog fan and cheering for Mississippi State University baseball and football teams throughout the years, no matter the season outcome.
James was devoted to God, living as a passionate Christian. Reading the bible each morning and praying for grace for everyone he knew, James lived a life of absolute faith, often sharing his love and devotion to Christ with others.
A graveside service only will be held at 10:00am on Thursday, March 30, 2023 at Floral Hills Memory Gardens in Pearl.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity in memory of James or planting a tree in his memory at https://shop.arborday.org/commemorative-trees-in-memory
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.baldwinleepearl.com for the Sumrall family.
