James Darryl Isbell

Mr. James Darryl Isbell was born on February 6, 1950 to the union of James Isbell and Mariah Alice Montgomery Isbell McKenzie in Talladega, Alabama. He was a beacon of hope and love to all who knew him. James accepted Christ at an early age, uniting with Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where his faith and strength blossomed. His educational journey began in the Talladega City School System where he was a graduate of Talladega High School, and later culminating with an associate degree, a testament to his belief in lifelong learning. He served his country valiantly in the United States Army for over 20 years, a period during which he traveled the world and earned numerous accolades, including: Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Army Lapel Button, Good Conduct Medal (6th Award), Overseas Service Ribbon "3", Army Commendation Medal (1st OLC), Army Achievement Medal (2nd OLC), NCO Professional Development Ribbon "3", Expert (Rifle M-16A1), and Sharpshooter (Hand Grenade). His dedication to service carved a path for his career as a chemical operations specialist for over 12 years and personnel actions specialist for over 17 years, defining a life of commitment and excellence. In his personal life, James became the loving father of three adorable children, Vernon, Shantrese, and Renae, and later in life he found his beloved wife JoAnn Smith Isbell. He was a devoted husband, nurturing father, and a steadfast supporter, always striving to provide for his family's needs. His heart was as expansive as his laughter, forever ready to lend a helping hand. James's passions extended beyond family; he cherished moments spent on the banks of lakes and rivers casting lines waiting for the "Big Catch", passionately following sports-especially his beloved Kansas City Chiefs and Alabama Crimson Tide-and honing his skills in ping pong, where he celebrated achievements with several trophies. On Saturday, August 16, 2025, Mr. James Darryl Isbell peacefully transitioned from this 75-year earthly journey to eternal rest in Newnan, Georgia surrounded by loved ones. Preceding him in death were his parents, James Isbell and Mariah McKenzie, brothers, Alan Dwayne Isbell and Ronald Edwin Isbell, and sister, Brenda Gail Isbell. As we remember Mr. Isbell, we gather to celebrate a life well-lived-a life of love, compassion, and unwavering faith. In the tapestry of memories that remain, Mr. Isbell leaves behind a legacy woven with love, laughter, and steadfast familial ties. His presence will forever resonate in the hearts of his loving and devoted sisters, Mary Lynn Wilson, Cheryl (Charles) Jureeka, Pennie Isbell Beeman, and Celeste Isbell. Mr. Isbell's legacy of love will forever be cherished in the hearts of his wife, JoAnn Isbell; son, Vernon Lane; his two daughters, Renae (Steve) Burton and Shantrese Isbell; and their mother, Mauldine (Isbell) Douthit; nieces and nephews, Alan, Derrick, Mike "Michael", Nykki "Lynnderia", Jairus, Randall Dyke, Alyse, Steven, and Ronald Edwin; grandchildren, Felicia Curry, DeMarcus Burton, Michael Bush, Jr., Alexa Isbell, Aaliyah Nelson, Keyana Lane, Maya Lane, Stephon Starks, DiMia Mann, and DaeShun Mann; special sister, Tressy (Sam) Spencer; special friends, Dave and Peggy Brown; sisters-in-law, Sharon McConico and Wanda Frazier; brothers-in-law, Nathaniel Smith and Reginald Carter; extended family, Darrell Ladell Smith, Alonzo Hill, Jr., Antonio O'Neal Hill, Timoty Pierre Hill; Stephanie Denise Smith Starks; and a multitude of cousins, other relatives, and friends who will miss him dearly. In honoring his legacy, let us remember him not just with sorrow, but with gratitude for the light he brought into our lives-a light that will forever guide us. His cherished memories will remain within us, forever inspiring kindness, strength, and the pursuit of excellence. May Mr. James Darryl Isbell rest in eternal peace, a guardian angel to all who hold his memory dear.