Dr. James A. Auchmuty, Jr.

Born on June 8, 1935, in LaGrange, Georgia, Jim dedicated his life to serving others and sharing the hope of Christ. He first served at Providence Baptist Church in Chambers County, Alabama. Jim was the longtime Pastor and Pastor Emeritus of Shades Crest Baptist Church (1972-1999), and First Baptist Church of Roebuck Plaza (2000-2025).

Jim faithfully led and served many churches in Alabama throughout his life: Providence/Five Points, Chambers County (1954-1957) West End Baptist Church, Aliceville (1962-1963) Calvary Baptist Church, Abbeville (1963-1968) First Baptist Church, Elba (1968-1972)

Jim “Rabbi” Auchmuty: Funeral Partners/Funeral Director 1993-2025. He was an avid lifelong learner and attended classes at Samford University as late as 2025.

Jim was the author of several books and the recipient of many hard-earned degrees: Ordained Minister – First Baptist of Lanett, Alabama (1953) Howard College (1957) Bachelor of Divinity – Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1960) Master of Theology – Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1962) Doctor of Ministry – Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (1975) Trustee and Honorary Doctor of Divinity – Judson College (1975)

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and friend, Jim’s life was a reflection of steady faith, deep compassion, and quiet strength. He was the jokester extraordinaire!

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years, Sue Meadows Auchmuty.

Jim was honored to be a father and is survived by his three children: Jenni Thomas (Robin), Robyn Cargo (Sam), and Jimbo Auchmuty (Leah). He was a proud “Papa” to eight grandchildren: Tyler Roberts (Lucy), Taylor Roberts (Anna), Tindall Alexander (Jason), Tanna Tillman, Katie Clark (Jake), Sam Cargo (Bekah), Anna Marie Auchmuty, and Amelia Reichard (Will). He was delighted to be the great grandfather of 6 great grandchildren: Audrey Ann Alexander, Addison Alexander, Hayes Clark, Gracie Clark, Graham Clark, and Gamble Roberts.

He was a man of deep conviction and gentle humor – a true shepherd who left his world better than he found it.

A memorial service celebrating Jim’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Shades Crest Baptist Church in Hoover. Visitation with the family will follow the service. A private family burial will be held at Southern Heritage. Elmwood Chapel is handling the arrangements.