James Arness Birdette

James Arness Birdette, 65, passed away unexpectedly on August 11, 2025, at his home in Smyrna, Georgia. Born on September 12, 1959, in Gainesville, Georgia. James was the beloved son of the late James Aaron Birdette and Arleen Lipscomb Birdette, and the younger brother of his infant brother, Alex Birdette, who preceded both his parents in death.

James grew up in his hometown of Gillsville, Georgia, and graduated from East Hall High School in 1977. Right after high school, James leaves his hometown and enters into college life at Lane College, Jackson, Tennessee. Alumni of Lane College, he completes his Bachelors of Science Degree/Biology in 1983, completing the walk with the Lanite's in 1984. He left Tennessee and moved into the Atlanta area where he began his servicing career with The State of Georgia Department Of Transportation. Through his servicing career ending with his family servicing business, 'Betterway Servicing Services Inc', he served with Braytham Assets Protection up until his passing.

Living in the Atlanta area drew him away from Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, the church in which he attended during his childhood.

Distancing serves him options of finding a new home church, and James and his family are led to East West Church, Marietta, GA, where he worshipped over twenty-years, serving up until his death. The church family extends their sympathy with cards, as they expound that he will truly be missed by the East West Church family.



James, a devoted husband and a loving father, is survived by his best friend and loving wife, Linda Faye Allen Birdette, whom they share 36 years of marriage, never separated or divorced. Two daughters, Jamie Alexandria Birdette and Tameika K. Walls Walley (Christopher) and one cherished grandchild, Eu'christa Takhia Walley.

His love for family extended deeply to his sibling Cheryl N'dofor; niece Adrienne Cantrell (Keith).

Niece Maukeda Birdette Parrish (Tony); and nephew Lorenzo Quintez Birdette, children of his sister Blonnie Renee Birdette who preceded him in death, are held a special place in his heart.

He also leaves behind aunts Dorothy Lipscomb Weaver, Viola Lipscomb, and Ludessia Mattox; uncles William Lipscomb and Wallace Lipscomb, Edward Sturdivant uncle-in-law; and a wide circle of in-laws including Gwen and James Wilburn, Cloyd and Marlin Allen, and Delores and Robert Farmer.

James's legacy continues through numerous great-nieces, a great-nephew, many cousins, and dear friends.

A Man of God First, Lane College is where his beginnings began in 1978 with Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Chapter. Served in Douglasville, Georgia Chapter Tri Mu, and Tau Chapter in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2024 James achieved his Life Membership Status.

Called James, called Birdette, by his wife's family, friends and colleagues. Called by Lanites' and greeks, are the names we hear such as, 'Bird', Enforcer, Dog5'. But now, the first name widely used as he were growing up, is 'Arness'.

Arness is the family name which the family and cousins use. But Nevertheless, We All Know James As Being A Loving, Caring And Respectful Man. Noting that in any disagreements which could arise, James was not shaken. Avoiding confrontation, he did not stand to argue, for he knew what he knew, and he believes, 'as it is written', 'do not revenge, the Lord Jesus Christ takes care of all evil. James led his life in relationship with our God, as HE expects us all to do. Romans 12, John 17

James life is a living testimony. When you know God has healed you, i.e., giving you a new heart, HE gives you a second chance in life. Don't Waste It. As like Barnabas in Mark 10:26- he just didn't get his sight back, he followed Jesus. He lived now with purpose, and on purpose in following Jesus. Align your life, and see what parts have you not surrendered. We must surrender all to Jesus.

Relationship with Jesus Christ is important. God wants relationship just as you want relationship with your spouse, or friend. He wants relationship and you are going to want to know that you can call on HIM when you know your spouse or friend can't help you. Relationship with Jesus Christ is important. I will love God with my spirit.

And this is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. Remember all the Lords commandments and do not get distracted by everything you feel or see that seduces you into infidelities. Look for Jesus, not for the thief- for the enemy specializes in bringing you counterfeit. Stay connected. John 11:45, Ephesians 4:25, Romans 12:1-2 (The Message Version)

'To always be truthful in all that you do, and have a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ', is what James wants us all to do.

May the memory of James Arness Birdette bring comfort to all who knew him.

A memorial service celebration of James' life will be held on September 13, 2025, 1:00 p.m. Location: Hanley-Shelton Funeral Home Chapel

473 Lawrence Street

Marietta, Georgia 30060

Condolences may be expressed at Legacy.com

In Lieu Of Flowers, Donations are directed To A21.org -A MISSION To End Slavery, Global Freedom.