James was born in Clinton, MS on December 10, 1959, to James Raymond, Sr. and Nan Pettit Sills. He attended Clinton High School, and he obtained both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in music education from Louisiana Tech University and Mississippi College, respectively. James was a successful and accomplished band director throughout the state of Mississippi. He served as Director of Bands at Yazoo City Schools, Clinton Public School District, and Hinds County Schools, among others. During his career, James was recognized as part of “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers,” a prestigious award that recognizes exemplar educators in the field. He also was a sought-after clinician and maintained high-achieving ensembles. In 2007, James commissioned “In His Grace: A Song for Nan” by a well-known composer in memory of his mother’s battle with cancer. The song has continued a legacy of music for both James and his family.
In addition to his passion for music education, his life-long hobby was owning, training, and showing Tennessee Walking Horses — especially with his son, Peyton.
Preceding him in death were his parents James Raymond, Sr. and Nan Pettit Sills. James is survived by his wife, Jennifer; two children, James Peyton Sills and Kaitlyn Olivia Sills; brother, Jeffery Duane Sills (Dawn); and sister Mechelle Sills Lowther (Barry).
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Parkway Funeral Home in Ridgeland, MS, with the funeral service immediately following at 10:00 a.m.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.parkwayfuneralhomeridgeland.com for the Sills family.
