James Micheal Gulley

James Michael Gulley, a beloved son, father, brother, and friend, passed away on September 8, 2026, at the age of 34. Born on January 31, 1992, in Jackson, Mississippi, James was the cherished son of Jim and Marie Ellis-Gulley. His life, though brief, was filled with remarkable achievements and an extraordinary dedication to the people and passions that enriched his world.

Growing up in Mississippi, James found his calling on the soccer field at a tender age. His journey in the sport began when he was just five years old, and his talent flourished as he progressed through the ranks. James was a three-year letter winner at Clinton High School and continued his athletic career at Tulsa University in Oklahoma, where he was a two-letter winner on the university's soccer team. He earned a degree in Arts and Science with a secondary degree in Information Management Technology.

James's professional path was as dynamic as his athletic endeavors. He excelled as a personal fitness trainer and certified hydro trainer, sharing his passion for fitness with everyone he met. His journey even took him overseas, where he played professional soccer in Sweden. James's commitment to health and wellness extended beyond his career; he was an enthusiastic marathon runner and an active member of several health clubs, including Barry's Health Club, The Health Club, and Motion Health Club. He also enjoyed the camaraderie of the Running Club and the excitement of the Paintball Club.

James was known for his captivating smile and the personal interest he took in everyone he trained and encountered. His warmth and kindness had an indelible impact on countless individuals, lifting them out of darkness and inspiring them to reach their potential. James's devotion to soccer extended to coaching young children, where he found great joy in nurturing the next generation of players. His passion for the sport was matched only by his love for running, a pursuit that saw him complete a 5K marathon in an impressive 42 minutes just days before his passing.

Above all, James was a devoted father to his surviving son, Archer Phoenix, with whom he shared countless moments of love and play. He is survived by his son, Archer, and by Caitlin Collins (Charlotte, NC), his former wife and lifelong co-parent, whose shared commitment to their son remained a source of mutual respect, love, and care, his beloved younger brother, Kellen J. Gulley (Clinton, MS), and his loving and devoted parents, Jim and Marie Ellis-Gulley (Clinton, MS), Grandfather Mose Ellis, Jr, Aunt Gloria D. McInytre (Greg) Uncle Leon Ellis (Renee). James was predeceased by his children, Ocean Gulley and Altas Gulley, his grandmother, Rosie Bell Ellis, and his aunts, Mozella Bolton and Mandy Ellis.

A service to celebrate James's life will be held on November 7, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Clinton Arrow Field, located at 401 Arrow Drive in Clinton, MS.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to The McEwen Funeral Home, the communities of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Clinton, Mississippi, as well as The Health Club, Motion, Barry's, The CRU Charlotte Run Club, and all who crossed paths with James. Special thanks are given to Coach Thomas Bobo and Lori Bobo, Travis Sullivan, Clair Christensen, Mike Dellorfano, Coach Jeff Long, Susan Meadors, Coach Otto, and dear friends Tommy and Regina Norris, and Janet Terrell, Pastor Renee Young.

REPASS: McAlister 620 Highway 80 East, Clinton MS 39056