James "Jimmie" Ebbie Creech

Cheraw, SC

James Ebbie “Jimmie” Creech, 88, known to family as JC, passed away January 5, 2026, at his home in Cheraw, South Carolina. Born in Chesterfield County and raised in Marlboro County, Jimmie’s life was shaped by a rural childhood, a tireless work ethic, and a deep devotion to family and community.

He served with the South Carolina National Guard, 178th Artillery Battery C, where he attained the rank of Sergeant and was recognized as the 1963 Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for the Cheraw unit. For 50 years he was a familiar presence at the J&K Grill and Market, working side by side with family behind the counter, selling super cheeseburgers and chicken boxes, and teaching younger generations the value of honest labor.

Racing played a major role in Jimmie’s life. As the owner and driver of the No. 01 “Mountain Dew” car, he managed his own team and raced on both dirt and asphalt tracks throughout the southeast. Saturday nights at the racetrack became a cherished family tradition. Jimmie enjoyed following NASCAR, eagerly sharing his love for the sport with friends and loved ones.

Jimmie was known for his calm demeanor, kindness and sense of humor. He treated people without judgment, often putting others’ comfort before his own giving up his seat or his plate when someone else needed it. Lynn fondly remembers working with him at the J&K for almost three decades and his familiar saying, “Let’s hook up & book.” Lisa recalls her role as his “pit crew” at the race track, while Lori cherishes half a century of birthday serenades and being affectionately called “Looooori.” Granddaughter Carly treasures the memory of the “Carlyburger” he created for her and his warm greeting, “Hey Darlin.”

Jimmie is survived by his wife of 65 years, Renee Alford Creech; daughters Lynn Rochelle Creech, Lisa Creech Crawford, and Lori Creech Phillips (Scott); grandchildren Tucker Brice Douglas and Carly Creech Douglas; brother Tommy Creech (Jo Linda); and sisters Frances Creech Tarleton, and Barbara Creech Leviner. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hardin and Mary Creech, and his sister, Beulah Creech Black.

Jimmie’s legacy will live on in the laughter of his family, the roar of the racetrack, and the countless small acts of kindness he offered to friends and strangers alike.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Kiser Funeral Home in Cheraw, with visitation to follow.

A private burial will follow the visitation in Chatham Hill Memorial Gardens in Cheraw, SC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethel United Methodist Church, 3624 Rocky Ridge Rd, Wallace, SC 29596.

Kiser Funeral Home has been entrusted to serve the Creech family in their time of grief.

Online condolences may be made at www.kiserfuneralhome.com.