James was born in Corinth, MS and lived there till his family moved to Memphis
He was a 1973 graduate of Frayser High School where he participated in ROTC, photography and Spanish Clubs. James went on to complete his BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Memphis, graduating in 1977. James’ first engineering job was with Dover Elevator, where he worked for 19 years. He next worked for Slimfast as Electrical Maintenance then Human Resources. James later went on to teach Electrical Systems at Vatterot College for 5 years. Lastly, he worked at FedEx in Electrical Maintenance until retiring in April of 2018.
James’ hobbies were numerous. As a young man, he belonged to Raleigh Racing Club, where he built hot rods with his buddies. He had numerous motorcycles over the years. James was an amateur radio (Ham) operator, holding an extra class license (call sign KB4LJV). He collected old Ham radio keys, HealthKit radios, and wrote articles for Delta Amateur Radio Club. He also loved computer programming and cruising the internet. These are just a few of his hobbies.
James is survived by his wife of 48 years, Rebecca, his brothers Steve(Janice) Butler, Danny (Carol) Scott, and Jerry (Kim) Scott; nephews Shade(Lauren) Butler, Austin Scott, Tanner Scott, and Jacob (Mary Grace) Scott; great nephews Lake Butler, Bryson Scott, Noah Scott, and great niece Bay Butler. James also has several nieces and nephews by marriage and brother-in-law Mike (Debbie) Smith.
James was preceded in death by his parents James F. Butler and Vernell Bryson Butler Scott Sellers; both sets of grandparents James Thomas and Ora Mae Butler, Laurence and Fannie Mae Bryson; his niece Rachel Scott; as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.
