James Richard Biles Sr.

He was born in Tanner, Alabama on September 19, 1933, to Richard Otto and Doris Dean Biles. He grew up in Decatur, Alabama, graduating from Decatur High School in 1951. He later attended Athens State University graduating with a BS degree. He briefly worked for L & N Railroad. He worked for Chemstrand (later Monsanto) where he retired after 27 devoted years. James proudly served in the US Army during the Korean War, serving in Seoul, Korea.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother in law, James Delbert Williams.

He is survived by his loving wife, Peggy Williams Biles, of 68 years; sons James Biles, Jr. of Athens, Alabama, Mark Biles (Jane) of Decatur, Alabama, and one sister, Ethel Ann Williams of Brownsboro and many nieces and nephews.

In 1963, James and family moved to the house built in the 1930s on his granddaddy J.R. Gilliam’s farm near Tanner, Alabama. James was an avid gardener with a two-acre garden and raised chickens, cattle and goats. He loved all sports. He especially followed Atlanta Braves’ baseball and Auburn athletics.

Visitation will be held from 12 to 1 pm on Friday, August 15th, 2025, with a service held at 1 pm in the chapel at McConnell Funeral Home with Mark Biles officiating. Following the chapel services, there will be a military honors ceremony at Roselawn Cemetery in Athens, Alabama.

Pallbearers will be Alan Segrest, Rob Segrest, Shane Whisenant, John Fanning, Matt Haney and James Biles, Jr. Honorary pallbearer will be James Schrimsher.

Special thanks to Hospice of Limestone County for their loving care (especially Sharon, Keegan, and Carrie and many others).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Limestone County.