Elmer William James

Elmer William James, 80, longtime resident of Athens, died July 10, 2024. 

Born in Madison County, he was a son of the late Hubert William and Tommie Lou Cooper James. Elmer was preceded in death by his son, Russell William James in 2012; brothers, Curtis James, Horace James, T.W. James, Henry Grady “Snooks” James; sister, Willie Jo Edwards and nephew, Roger James. 

A lifelong resident of Athens, Elmer was a former employee of the Athens Police Department and Athens Fire Department and was longtime owner of Elmer James Body & Wrecker Service. He owned and drove race cars at Athens Speedway for a number of years. He enjoyed restoring antique cars, riding on his motorcycle, traveling with friends, and attending the grandchildren’s sporting events. Elmer was a dedicated member of Whitehall Baptist Church. 

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Doris Christian James; daughter Angie Branton and her husband Jimmy of Nicholson; daughter in law, Tiffany James and her husband Chad of Jefferson, GA; grandchildren, Ashley Branton, Brett (Anna) Branton, Dylan James and Bryce James; great granddaughter, Tilly Branton and a number of nieces and nephews. 

Services will be Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 3:00 PM at Whitehall Baptist Church with Pastor Jimmy Edwards officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park. 

Pallbearers will be Andy Wheeler, Jonathan Anglin, Dennis Williamson, Dennis Williamson, Jr., Chad Richards and Patton Davis. 

The family will receive friends at Lord and Stephens, EAST, Friday, July 12, 2024 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM.