Dr. James O'Tuel Warren

Born on June 28, 1960, in Albemarle, North Carolina, James was the son of Houston Butler Warren and Louise O’Tuel Warren. He was raised in Laurinburg, where he was an active member of First Baptist Church and Boy Scout Troop 420. His dedication and leadership earned him the rank of Eagle Scout, as well as the God and Country Award.

James graduated from Scotland High School in 1978, where he played football and performed in the school band. He continued his education at The Citadel, graduating in 1982. James was a cadet in November Company and was also a member of the prestigious 1982 Sword Drill.

In 1990, James earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. He then completed a two-year fellowship in gastroenterology at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta.

In 1993, James and his family made New Bern their home, where he began practicing as a gastroenterologist with Eastern Carolina Internal Medicine. Through his compassion, dedication, and skill, he earned the respect of both his patients and colleagues. Although health challenges led him to retire from medicine in 2007, his impact on the lives of his patients continued.

James enjoyed being an active member of his community and found meaning in serving others. He was a member and Past Master of St. John’s Masonic Lodge #3, a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, and gave his time to the Boy Scouts of America by serving on the Board of Review for Eagle Scouts. His faith was also an important part of his life. As an active member of First Baptist Church, he taught an adult Sunday School class in years past and played in the handbell choir. These commitments reflected many of James’s interests and values, including service, faith, fellowship, and community.

Above all, James cherished his family. He is survived by his childhood sweetheart and devoted wife of 42 years, Stephanie Prevatte Warren; his daughters, Caroline Warren and Elizabeth Eagan and her husband, Chris; his beloved grandchildren, Mary Eagan, Eleanor Eagan, Louise Eagan, and James Waddell; and his brothers, Dr. William Warren and his wife, Donna, and Dr. Louis Warren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, James O’Tuel Warren, Jr, and his parents, Houston Warren and Louise Warren.

James will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his commitment to service, and the steady kindness he shared with those around him. His life was marked by faith, perseverance, and a deep love for the people and places that shaped him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of New Bern in James’s memory.

A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory located at 2201 Neuse Blvd., New Bern, NC 28560.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at First Baptist Church of New Bern, 239 Middle St, New Bern, NC 28560.

A Committal Service will be held at 3:30 pm on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Mt. Elam Baptist Church Cemetery located at 2211 Mt Elam Church Rd, Roseboro, NC 28382.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory are honored to serve the Warren family.