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James O'Gwynn Obituary
Mr. O'Gwynn was a life long Country Music Recording Artist and was affectionately known as "The Smiling Irishman of Country Music " in the music world. In his career he had been a member of the Louisiana Hayride and the Grand Ole Opry. He also served in the United States Marine Corps and was a Veteran of WWII.
He was born January 26, 1928 in Winchester (Wayne County) Mississippi to Louie W. and Ethel Busby O'Gwynn.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Louise, his first wife Mary Suggs O'Gwynn,and his second wife Bertena Tucker O'Gwynn. He is survived by his four children, Robert J (Barbara)of Brandon, MS, Brenda (James) Sullivan of Memphis,TN, Carol (Eric)Murdock of Moselle, MS and James D.( Kitty) of Dardanelle, AR. one step-son Shelley Bordan of Little Rock, AR.
Twelve grandchildren, fourteen great- grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by his two sisters Wilma Murdock of Meridian,MS June Ruttledge of Monroe,LA and his wonderful Sweetheart Jeanette.
Visitation will be from 5-9 PM Friday evening at Freeman Funeral Home in Waynesboro, MS. Funeral services will be at the funeral home chapel on Saturday at 10:AM officiated by Bro.Eric Richard Pastor of Petal Church of God where Mr.O'Gwynn attended for the past seven years. Internment will be at Mt. Zion Church Cemetery in Wayne County.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James O'Gwynn
February 22, 2011
I had the privilege of working for and with James for 30 years; I had the extreme privilege of having him as a friend, confidant & advisor for 54 years. He is deeply missed and surely the music in heaven is sweeter now with his voice joining in. Miss ya, love ya.
Shirley Johnson, Pres.
The James O'Gwynn Fan Club
1957-1987
Brenda Sullivan
February 22, 2011
My Dad was an inspiration to me all the years of my life. I am so thankful to have had him for so long. Loved to hear him sing & play the guitar and have so many memories of country music stars & musicians coming to our home to see him or just visit with him. Most of all I miss the coffee and the visits that we have had over the years. He remains in my heart.
Arie den Dulk
February 2, 2011
With sadness I've read about the death of the "Smiling Irishman". He was popular in Europe and his records have been released on quite a few country music CD albums.
May the Good Lord keep and bless his family.
Arie den Dulk, president Jim Reeves Fan Club (www.jimreevesfanclub.com)
Phil Hall
January 31, 2011
Robert & Babs, so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. He was a gentleman and a pretty good singer, too.
Roma Emilio
January 29, 2011
Thank you James, for all the wonderful music and memories, the little chats and your friendship. To the family, Jeanette, Sisters, Children & Grandchildren, thank you for sharing the Irishman. My hope is that your grief will soon be replaced with happy memories!
Roma Emilio, Sequim, WA.
January 24, 2011
We lost a good friend and music buddy. He will be missed. Our Love and God Bless Kent and Barbara Dennis, Danville, Arkansas
January 24, 2011
Sorry about your loss, James was a great Musician and country music singer with great songs.
Bobby Pickett (Hattiesburg, Ms.)
Wendy Dewitt Ford
January 22, 2011
Aunt Net, we are so sorry for your loss.
Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Love you.
January 21, 2011
James & Kitty So sorry for your loss. Your dad was a very special person and well liked by many and will be greatly missed . Gary & Lee Ellen Hicks
Gary&Gloria Craig
January 21, 2011
Jamie & Kitty: So sorry for your loss. James was a wonderful person and we will remember the many weekends and good times spent with everyone and listening to his music.
Barbara Rollans
January 20, 2011
Special Man and his great music will live forever..Our prayers go out to the family. We have known him since 1962. He was a joy to know each time I seen him he greeted me with a huge smile and and always said Surprise! Surprise!
Mike Barnes
January 20, 2011
Todd and family we are very sorry for your lose. always remember you have memories that will sustain you through this difficult time. Keep those memories and love close to your heart. many prayers and thoughts your way.
Mike barnes and Family
January 20, 2011
Robert and Brenda, sorry for your loss. Love you
both.
Bill Cooley,
Lucedale, Ms
January 20, 2011
My condolences to the entire family.
James was my first love.
Martha
DICK GRANT
January 20, 2011
I LOVED YOUR MUSIC
Julius & Alanna Johnson
January 20, 2011
Jimmy, we're so sorry for the loss of your grandfather. Your family is in our prayers. Grandparents are so very special.
Mary Mooney
January 20, 2011
So sorry for your loss. My prayers are with the family at this trying time.
Kenny Bell
January 20, 2011
No worries,no pain,may you rest in peace and suffer no more.You will be dearly missed and never forgotten.Thank you for everything and I'll see you again one day!
January 20, 2011
Carol Murdock
January 19, 2011
Daddy you will forever sing in our hearts. I love you.
January 19, 2011
Oh, sweet man I never met but whose music I love! ---Sherry Austin
He was great and would tell you just how :)
J.T. Crosby
January 19, 2011
Guitars & Cadillacs
J.T. Crosby
January 19, 2011
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