Colonel James A. Carberry

Colonel James Albert "Jim" Carberry, 88, passed away Dec.12, 2025, at Brightmoor Hospice in Griffin, Ga. A proud Texan by birth and a decorated military officer, Jim lived a life marked by service, devotion to family, and unwavering loyalty to strongly held traditions.

Born on March 22, 1937, in Temple, Texas, Jim was the son of William A. Carberry and Mary Arminta White Carberry. He graduated from Temple High School in 1955 where he played football and served as president of the Future Farmers of America, attending the 1954 National Convention in Kansas City. His academic career continued at Texas A&M University where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets, graduating in 1959 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics. Later he attended Roosevelt University in Chicago, graduating with an MBA in 1974.

Jim's distinguished military career began when he received his commission into the U.S. Army where he served as an Airborne Ranger. Later in his career, he was a comptroller for the 81st U.S. Army Reserve Command (ARCOM). Over the years, he rose through the ranks with honor and dedication, ultimately retiring as Colonel. His service included two tours in Vietnam, and he was a three-time recipient of the Bronze Star. His military career reflected his deep sense of duty and patriotism.

Following his retirement from active duty, Jim remained deeply connected to the values instilled during his years of service. He was a loyal attendee of reunions with fellow servicemen and maintained strong ties with the military community. His presence was always marked by camaraderie and respect, especially with his Wild Goose group who met annually for decades in various places throughout the United States. His last outing, prior to briefly falling ill, was attending the Christmas party for his colleagues from the 81st ARCOM, an annual event he helped launch over 30 years ago.

Jim was a self-made man who worked incredibly hard and lived his life with great determination and purpose. He spent many years in property management, serving as president and partnering with his wife as co-owner of JEBCO, FLP. His business acumen and financial know-how also allowed him to be a well-versed investor. Jim was an active member of the Atlanta Vietnam Veterans Business Association, and he worked multiple years as an election commissioner in Clayton County, Ga.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim was a man of faith and community. He worshipped at First Baptist Church in Morrow, Ga., where he found spiritual grounding and fellowship. Perhaps most importantly, Jim cherished his role as a family man as a loving husband and father. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of almost 60 years, Evelyn Greggs Carberry, on Oct. 13, 2025; his parents; his brother, W. A. Carberry; and his sister, Billie Louise Carberry Fuller. He is lovingly remembered by his son, James Brian Carberry; daughter-in-law, April Wright Carberry; and granddaughter, Emma Caroline Carberry, all of Shreveport, La. To Caroline, Jim was not just “Granddaddy,” but a doting presence whose love knew no bounds.

Jim’s passions extended into every corner of his life. A devoted Fighting Texas Aggie, he proudly wore maroon and white on game days and never missed an opportunity to yell for Texas A&M football. He was an avid supporter of hometown sports teams as an Atlanta Falcons, and former Atlanta Chiefs of the NASL, season ticket holder. He also was an enthusiastic supporter –and stockholder– of the Atlanta Braves. Whether attending in person or watching games from home, Jim’s love for sports brought joy to those around him.

He enjoyed traveling throughout his life, visiting 48 states; Washington, D.C.; Puerto Rico; and over 10 countries. He attended World’s Fairs and Exhibitions: Seattle in 1962, New York in 1964, San Antonio in 1968, and Knoxville in 1982. He found peace at the beach and joy in simple pleasures, whether visiting with friends from all walks of life or sharing stories over meals seasoned with his beloved Tabasco sauce! His warmth, humor, and steadfast spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A visitation will be held Dec. 27, 2025, from 1 PM to 2 PM at First Baptist Church, 1647 Lake Harbin Rd. in Morrow, Ga., followed by a funeral service at 2 PM at the same location. A committal service will take place on Dec. 29, 2025, at 11 AM at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery, 553 Hwy 165, Phenix City, Ala. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Haisten Funerals & Cremations, McDonough, Ga.

Special thanks to Brightmoor Hospice, Griffin, Ga., for their care and compassion during Jim’s final few days.

May memories of Jim bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as a lasting tribute to a life well-lived in service to others.