Obituary
Mr. James Anthony was born September 24, 1935 in Lincoln County, North Carolina to the late Ragen Anthony and Lassie Miller Anthony. Affectionately known as “Shorty”, James was called home by God to be at rest, on January 21, 2026, bringing to a close a faithful life of love, service, and enduring strength. James was a man of integrity, compassion and humanity. He was a hard worker, known for his gentle spirit, warm smile and kind heart. He carried himself with grace and was willing to lend a helping had or offer words of encouragement. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing James was truly blessed, as his life reflected a deep love for family and a strong sense of responsibility. A hard working and dedicated man, James committed fifty years of faithful service to Southern Furniture. Throughout his career, he worked as a mechanic, wood chipper, and in various other roles. He approached every task with honesty, pride and care. His strong work ethic and reliability were a true reflection of the man he was. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his three brothers, Ragen A. Anthony, Frank Anthony and Richard Anthony; four sisters, Georgia Diane Anthony, Mary J. Robinson, Annie Howell and Frances Robinson. He was also preceded in death by his nephews, William A. Robinson, Thomas Lee Robinson and Quentin Smith, and his niece, Frances Priscilla McClain. James leaves to cherish his loving memory his devoted sisters, Dixie (Bobby) Smith of Catawba, North Carolina and Gaynell Anthony of Claremont, North Carolina, who will continue to honor his life and legacy. He also leaves a host of loving nieces and nephews, including LaKisha ( Dannie) Wright of Kings Mountain, North Carolina, Melissa Smith of Claremont, North h Carolina, Dameian Smith of Charlotte, North Carolina, Bobby Smith of Conover, North Carolina, Jermaine (Angelica) Anthony of Conover, North Carolina and Sheena Anthony of Claremont, North Carolina; and his beloved great-niece, Tydeisha ( Chris) Pena of Hickory, North Carolina. Though we mourn his earthly passing, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and take comfort in knowing that James now rests in God’s loving care. His life, love and faith will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his memory will forever be a blessing to those whose lives he touched.
A Homegoing Service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Claremont, North Carolina at 2:00 p.m. Family visitation will be from 1:00p.m.-2:00 p.m. at the church. Dirk M Thompson Mortuary is serving the Anthony family. (828) 323-1980 www.dirkmthompsonmortuary.com
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