Jimmy Sanford "Bub" James, 62, of Cornelius NC, passed away at his home on January 23 of natural causes. Bub was born on Christmas Day in 1955 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to the late Terry and Jimmy James. He moved to Charlotte with his family in 1967 and immediately began making lifelong friends. He attended Shamrock Gardens Elementary, Eastway Junior High, and was a 1974 graduate of Garinger High School where he excelled in football and baseball as team captain and MVP. He was named to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg first team all-county football and baseball teams as a senior. He went on to graduate from Wingate University in 1980.

Bub grew up in the Country Club Heights section of Charlotte. His friendship and loyalty were a genuine gift. A gifted athlete, Bub was most comfortable in the gym, and took extreme care to exercise and stay in top physical shape throughout his life.

He loved Lake Norman. The water, the sun, his boat, jet skis, but most of all the friends he made through the common love of the outdoors and lake living. He enjoyed his classic Mercedes-Benz 450SL. He enjoyed North Myrtle Beach. He enjoyed being a Shamrock Rat, an Eastway Trojan, and a Garinger Wildcat. He enjoyed a challenge. He enjoyed making others happy, and had the smile, personality and charm to make anyone he met feel comfortable. He had a kind soul and a big heart.

He is survived by his aunt and uncle, June and Jerry Patchell of Nashville, TN; nephews Justin Adams of Charlotte, NC, and Joshua Adams of Indian Land, SC; nieces Lindsay Adams of Charlotte, NC, and Caycee Rikard (Todd Rikard) of Kings Mountain, NC. Bub was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather Terry and Tom Crane; his father Jimmy James; and his sister Sharon James Adams Lechner.

A service to celebrate Bub's life will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at 1:00 pm at Plaza Presbyterian Church, 2304 The Plaza, Charlotte. Lifelong friends Ron "Fritz" Smith, Pastor of Johnston Memorial Presbyterian Church, and John "Big Boy" Austin, Director of Adventure Resources, will officiate. Burial will be private. Honorary pallbearers will be Jack "Pudge" Bacot, Dwight "The Catch" Clark, Jeff "Hawk" Collins, John "Big'un" Delaney, Mark "Pistol" Estep, Calvin "Coach" Hudgins, Danny "Ruf" Martin, Tom "Gilligan" Proctor, Randy "Dough" Riggins, Gary "Squiz" Robinson, Ronnie "The Dream" Stephens, Mike "Frosty" Todd and Raymond "Butch" Williams.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Bub's name to Johnston Memorial Presbyterian Church, 729 East 36th Street, Charlotte, NC 28205. J.B. Tallent Funeral Service is assisting the James family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charlotte Observer on Jan. 31, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Jimmy James

66 Entries

Susan Jean Williams Furr

January 15, 2024

Bub I love you with all my heart and always will I only had 1 big brother until you came along. You´ll always be my big brother Bub in Heaven too. I miss you till I´m in Heaven with you. Give my mom a kiss from me . I love you so much Big Brother Bubba

Linda Langford

January 27, 2021

Miss u Jimmy so much!

Rose

September 11, 2018

Missing a good friend

Rebecca Leah

May 15, 2018

Miss You Cousin. Until we meet again. RIP.

Al and Susan Martin

February 19, 2018

Our sincere condolences to the James family. Jimmy lived two doors away from our home in Lake Norman Cove. He was always so friendly and did so many nice things for all of the neighbors. I came home one day to find him pressure washing our front walkway and porch. He just wanted to do something nice for us. That is the kind of person he was. He unconditionally gave to others.
We are saddened to learn of his passing and want to extend our sincere wishes of sympathy.

Jinx Pruden

February 8, 2018

It's hard to say Goodbye to a lifelong friend. You will be missed. I'll miss you.

Melanie Lynch

February 7, 2018

RIP Bubba James

Melvin Quick

February 6, 2018

It's with great sadness to learn of Bubba's passing! What a great guy overall as well as on the football field! At Garinger, Bubba played linebacker while I played the other linebacker. I remember on some occasions prior to exiting the field house for practice or before a game, Bubba getting himself psyched up would bang his head against the caged lockers and simultaneously shouting loudly, "Let's GO!!!" He was into the game and what a great teammate to associate oneself with him..I enjoyed playing along side him!

To the James Family, I extend my sincere condolences to you in your time of sorrow and loss. It is obvious that Bubba's mark was left indelible to the hearts and minds of a host of people like mine. My prayers are left to console you during this difficult time! RIP Bubba!

Ila Jane Jelenick

February 6, 2018

You stole a piece of my heart the day we met. Forever that piece will be missing. How all of us miss you here on earth. Glory be to the highest... for in him you are now whole. Until we meet again my friend.

Rocky Miller

February 6, 2018

Wow! What a kind and gentle soul! Bubba and I were best buds at Wingate and I am a better person having Bubba as a friend! May you rest at God's feet my brother!
Rocky Miller

Greta Metker

February 3, 2018

You were a special man with an amazing caring heart, I will forever miss our long talks and texts. I may not have known you long, but felt like I've known you forever. Thoughts and prayers to your family and many close friends.

Janet Butler

February 3, 2018

Jimmy was so kind to everyone! His sweet smile and kind words touched everyone!

Will miss you Jimmy!

Carol Budko

February 3, 2018

Condolences to Bub's family and many, many friends. Bub, I feel you are looking down on all those attending your celebration of life today, scratching your head and thinking to yourself, "why all the tears, I'll see you guys soon." I'll miss your uplifting posts and kind words. The world needs more people like you. Rest easy.

Tim Cowley

February 3, 2018

Bub,what a Great guy and person. He was one of the nicest people you could ever meet. He was be missed by all his friends and family. What a great athlete, enjoyed playing football and baseball when Garinger and Independence played each other. RIP my friend, what a great loss to us all. Tim Cowley

wilbur Johnson

February 3, 2018

Sorry to hear about Bub my condolences to his family. I hadn't seen Bub in years but everyone assumed we would becomes foes but we became friends. Fellow Wildcat Wilbur Johnson, one little story about Bub I rememember. He and Howard Blount got into a little scrap at football practice and coach Robinson made them run around the track holding hands that was so funny. Rest in peace!

Wilbur Johnson
[email protected]

Linda Langford

February 3, 2018

Love & I'll miss u my friend! ❤

Herb. McKinney

February 3, 2018

It was great being on the football field with you and butch. But I knew not to let YOU or BUTCH hit me in practice. Herb McKinney

Marie Davis

February 2, 2018

I was in the same class at Garinger. Even though we were not in the same social circle I knew who he was and had a secret crush on him! My memories of Bub were that Bub was always so kind and respectful to the girls and teachers. He had a very kind side to him that I always remember. His athletic ability was amazing. I was surprised he didn't go pro back in the day. My sincere condolences to the family.

Melanie Lockhart-Lyon

February 2, 2018

You are the kindest person I've ever known, Bub. My heart is broken. You and I came from similar places and you always understood me...even more than I understood myself. Enjoy the PEACE I know you are now blessed with, the PEACE you so deserve. Love you always.

Jeff Davis

February 2, 2018

I was very saddened to hear about Bub's passing. My prayers and thoughts are not only for Bub, but for his family and the great group of close friends he had. Bub James was a Blessed Man.

February 2, 2018

Bub James was a household name in the Gardner home. I wish he knew this. Bub was just a great guy. All 8 Gardners know of the great, Bub James.

He made us proud to be a Garinger Wildcat.

Jill Gardner Crowgey

Michele Cooke

February 1, 2018

Grateful our paths crossed on this journey. Fly freely my friend

Robbie Honeycutt

February 1, 2018

The Best of the Best you will be so very miss and never be forgotten.

david kragh

February 1, 2018

He was a great friend and human being,he will be sadly missed by all whom shared in his life...Im proud to call Jimmy my friend..

Theresa Ammons

February 1, 2018

Still cannot believe Bubba, as my family called him, is gone. I know he is in a better place, but he leaves a hole in so many people's hearts. He was like a brother to my six brothers and to me and he will be missed by not only my family but so many other friends. RIP my brother!

Allison Clemmer Penegar

February 1, 2018

You were such a kind and gentle soul. I'm honored and grateful to have known you. I'm sad that you are gone too soon...you will be forever missed, and you made this world a better place.

February 1, 2018

Bub, what a sweet man you were and I will miss our conversations. Thank you to The Pistol for introducing us at this stage in life. You will be a special Angel up there, no doubt.
I will be there in Spirit on Saturday. Till we meet again...Katherine

Terri Whitley

February 1, 2018

Bub, God gave you such a HUGE heart of compassion, kindness and tenderness to all those with whom you had contact; thank you for demonstrating HIS love to us in such a tangible way. You have left an indelible mark on my heart and I am certain all the hearts you have touched! You will be sorely missed.

Terry Morgan

February 1, 2018

The last time I saw/spoke with Bub was in December 1974. Think of how many people you can actually remember the last time you spoke with them? That's the sort of impact Bub had on all around him. My sincerest condolence to the family and Bub may you rest in peace.

Larry Alston

February 1, 2018

Rest In Eternal Peace, Garinger Wildcat classmate! Condolences to your family and friends!

Nancy Dobbins

January 31, 2018

Bub you are so loved and will be so missed. Such a difference you made in so many lives. I know there was a great reunion in Heaven when you entered those Pearly Gates! Till we meet again friend...

Debbie Funderburk-Eudy

January 31, 2018

RIP Bub. Another Wildcat gone too soon.

Chuck Wright

January 31, 2018

Bub was a big time athlete with a big time heart!

Larry Riggs

January 31, 2018

RIP my friend.

Earline Jackson

January 31, 2018

A good name means so much.(Ecclesiastes 7:1). Jimmy James had a good name.sincere condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. He is resting in Gods memory.

Vicki Dean

January 31, 2018

Aunt Vicki will miss you

Lori Younger

January 31, 2018

Farewell my friend and peace to your family and friends. Your beautiful soul and kindness touched so many in your lifetime here on Earth. I look forward to seeing you again in Heaven.

Lois Barley-McCurdy

January 31, 2018

The words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss ... such a beautiful spirit ...

Karen Moats

January 31, 2018

One of the kindest people you could ever meet. RIP Bubba
Prayers and respect to the family
Karen Moats

Elaine Lentz

January 31, 2018

I wish his family and his friends healing and peace. Bubba will never be gone from our hearts.

January 31, 2018

My sincere condolences to the James family and friends in the loss of a fellow Charlotteteain, may you'll have the peace of God at this difficult time.

Betty Alexander Duncan

January 31, 2018

Bub ! What a good looking and kind hearted person you were ! Thank u for being u! Rest In Peace !! Know you are safely with you loved ones - - as Absent from the body is present with the Lord. As we evidently still remain here til we are called home too, and you will be missed greatly - we will serve on , unto that Day!! R I P

Hal Wishon

January 31, 2018

My wife and her siblings had the extreme good fortune to know Bub from elementary through high school. I was privileged to meet him years later in the gym. Bub was one of the kindest souls I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He always had a smile on his face and his witty personality created a lot of laughs during hard workouts.

Our Lord is now embracing one of his best.

Looking forward to seeing you again one day.

Sandra Hayes

January 31, 2018

Bub, I know you are in a special place in Heaven reserved for you because of your beautiful soul. I will miss you but you will always be in my thoughts and my heart.

Barbara Hasty Hicks

January 31, 2018

I went to Eastway and then Garinger with Bub. I wasn't in the popular group at school so I did not know him personally either. I did friend him through facebook and got a glimpse at the man everyone adored. He was very kind and spiritual and wish I had gotten the chance to know him better. Rest in peace with your beloved sister and family.

Carol Owens Shackelford

January 31, 2018

I, like others who knew you from Kindergarten thru High School and beyond will truly miss you! Heaven has another Angel, but just too soon.

Dan Johnson

January 31, 2018

As a shy, skinny kid @ Shamrock Gardens, Bub welcomed me with his calm easy going demeanor. He (& a number of the Shamrock Rats) made me feel like I fit in. Something that I remember to this day! RIP Bub!!!

Linda Shuford

January 31, 2018

Life will never be the same again without you BUB! I will always carry you in my heart! You were a great friend and big brother. You are now at peace with your mom and Sharon. Thank you for all our memories, stories, and most of all , the love and laughter we had together. Love you always and until we meet again, Fly high sweet angel!!

January 31, 2018

SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE JAMES FAMILY AND FRIENDS. LOSING A LOVE ONE IN DEATH IS NEVER EASY. ONE DAY MANY WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO LIVE AGAIN. MAY THE HOPE OF EVERLASTING LIFE SUSTAIN AND COMFORT YOU DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME. JOHN 17:3

Janet Keziah Holtzclaw

January 30, 2018

I've tried to find the right words and cannot. Bub was a treasure; a truly wonderful man that was immediately loved by all privileged enough to know him. I will miss him so very much.

Sharon Miller Ballard

January 30, 2018

I wish I had known you better. You were always so popular and Special. Guess I was shy around you like most of the girls in school. Until recently we actually got to know each other better, I wish I hadn't waited so long. RIP Bub...You are Everything I thought you were. Another Angel..

Sam Garris

January 30, 2018

Rest in Peace Bub. Life was all great as we all was growing up. But as life now comes to a close we all left here are still growing my brother. R.I.P till i see you again.. Gods Speed!

Suzie Rape

January 30, 2018

I don't believe you had any idea of the lives and hearts you touched and ALL the people that loved you and treasured you. You will be missed my friend. RIP. I know I will see you again in heaven. So glad I was fortunate enough to call you friend. You will never be forgotten.

Linda Shuford-Reeves

January 30, 2018

Mona ..Cotton and Shawn Howell

January 30, 2018

You will be missed my dear friend.

Irene Swiger Robinette

January 30, 2018

What a special kind soul, even if it was just threw a few textI never knew or had that blessing of knowing him personally but did go to Eastway and Garinger back then w/him.Didn't think of one girl that wasn't wowed just passing him n the hall☺I'd see him coming and would go the other way. How funny to look back at that now, that was my biggest memoryWhat a honor and a true Blessing to anyone that was close and got to share that time w/BubI know he will truly b missed foreverGod has that sweet Angel Shinning n HeavenHeaven truly got a Angel❤

Jeff Benson

January 30, 2018

RIP, big guy. We'll meet again..

SCOTT HILL

January 30, 2018

Absolutely one of the most genuine and kind people I have ever known God bless all who knew him and his family

January 30, 2018

The world has lost a kind and gentle soul. Our loss is heaven's gain.

Pam King Sawyer

Kimberly Kelly

January 30, 2018

What a wonderful person Bub was in his life here on earth. I can only imagine what heaven has gained. He will be missed by so many wonderful people whose life he enriched. Prayers for his family and his 'Rats'...

Debbie Couet Johnson

January 30, 2018

Words cannot express how loved and respected you were by all had the honor and privilege to know you. I will miss you with all my heart. You will never, ever be forgotten.

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