James Edwin Greenlee

James Edwin Greenlee, Sr., 86, entered his Heavenly Home after an extended illness, on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at his residence in Burlington.

James, known as “Jim” or “Jamie” to many, was born on October 17th, 1937 in Bartow, Florida. He spent his childhood and teen years living in Eustis, FL and was the son of Herbert John Greenlee, Sr. and Kathleen Demerest Anderson Greenlee.

Jim joined the US Air Force at the tender age of 17 and served in many locations in the United States and overseas, including a tour in Vietnam in 1970 – 71. While in the service at Homestead Air Force Base, FL in 1958 – 1960, he met and married the love of his life, Sylvia Ann Wing. They were married for 64 years. 

Following Jim’s retirement from the Air Force, he was a real estate broker for ten years and served as the President of the Chapel Hill Board of Realtors in 1986. It was during these years that Jim felt the Call of God on his life to serve in the Christian Ministry. After completion of training at the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, he was called to be the Senior Pastor of Farrington Road Baptist Church (Waypoint Church) in Chapel Hill, NC. He served in that position for 19 years.

Jim was a published author of an autobiographical book entitled “Jamie Remembers: Growing Up In Eustis” and continued his writing passion in poetry and comical presentations. He also enjoyed the game of golf and traveling with his family and friends when he was physically able.

Jim is survived by his wife, Sylvia; daughter, Barbara Lynn Greenlee Kelly (Charles); son, James Edwin Greenlee, Jr. (Karen); grandchildren, Andrew (Julia), Benjamin Kelly (Maria), Matthew (Libby), Sarah and Zachary Greenlee; brother, John Greenlee and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson, James Michael Greenlee, and a sister, Miriam Greenlee Host.

Memorial donations may be made to Baptist Children’s Home of North Carolina, P.O. Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Waypoint Church on Friday, August 16, 2024 at 7:00 PM