James McCorkle Ph.D. Jr.

James L. McCorkle, Jr., PhD.

May 17, 1935- December 29, 2015

Jim McCorkle, Jr. passed away on December 29th of brain cancer. Memorial services will be held for him at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, January 6th, at 11:00 a.m. Church Deacons and Elders will be Honorary Pallbearers. Funeral Services and burial will be in Hazlehurst, Mississippi.

Jim was born on May 17, 1935, in Jackson, Mississippi, and he grew up in nearby Hazlehurst. True to his Southern upbringing, he learned to be a "Southern gentleman," exemplifying kindness, gentleness, graciousness and hospitableness, from his father, his uncles, and the fine examples set for him by members of his church and community.

Jim received his Bachelor's Degree from Auburn University in Alabama and was commissioned an officer in the US Navy, serving three years in Seattle, Washington and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. He also served in the Naval Reserve for 15 years. Jim received his Master's and Doctorate Degrees from the University of Mississippi in Oxford, "Ole Miss."

Jim taught for 37 years at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, in the History Department where he served as a professor and department head. His specialty in Southern United States history led him to write many articles and monographs which were published in national and Southern professional journals and books. He was presented with numerous awards for excellence in teaching, and was a model, a mentor and a friend to his students.

While teaching at the university, Jim met his wife, DeAnn Dawes, who was also a professor there, and they recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. Jim and DeAnn were blessed with one son, James "Wilson," who passed away while he was a university student. Jim is survived by his wife.

What distinguished Jim most was his deep faith and trust in God and his love and gratefulness for his membership in the Presbyterian Church of which he was a member throughout his life. Members of this church never failed to provide him with sincere love and a warm and supportive family no matter where he lived. It also provided him with daily opportunities to serve the poor and oppressed of his community, accompanied by fellow church members.

Holiness to the Lord!