James Edward "Jim" Couch

1930 - 2026

James "Jim" Edward Couch, 95, passed away Sunday, March 29, 2026, at North Mississippi Medical Center Hospice unit. He was born May 17, 1930, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Elic Andrew "Buddy" Couch and Ruth Couch. Jim graduated from Tupelo High School in 1948, attended Mississippi College, later earning his associate's degree from Itawamba Junior College. On June 4, 1950, he married Jacqueline "Jackie" Westmoreland, and they shared a devoted marriage until her death in April 2023. From 1952 to 1954, Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Corporal as he served in North Japan.

A faithful member of First Baptist Church since 1939, Jim was active throughout the years as a Sunday school teacher, training union leader, Deacon, choir member, and usher. He was deeply loved by fellow church members at FBC and his passing leaves a void in the church family. He held various jobs during his lifetime, including positions with Gunner's Market, Page Grocery Company, Westmoreland Tractor Company, and Bryan Auto Parts. The majority of his career was spent with the United States Postal Service as a letter carrier for 26 years. Jim was perfect in this role due to his outgoing personality and love for people. In his free time, Jim enjoyed working in his yard and box gardens, fly fishing with his friend Billy Breeland, reading his Bible, and enjoying novels.

Jim is survived by his granddaughter, Aley Reece and her husband, Hal of Oxford; great grandchildren Chuck and Elizabeth Reece , special niece and nephew, Ruth Brunner and John Thomas; several other nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law Vicki Couch and Joanne Couch and close family friend, Elna Barber.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elic Andrew and Ruth Couch; wife, Jackie Couch; son, James E. Couch, Jr.; daughter-in-law, Barbara H. Couch; sisters, Peggy Williams, Jane Thomas, Helen Frances Couch; and brothers, John R. Couch, Harry V. Couch, Thomas F. Couch.

Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Monday, April 6, 2026, at Tupelo Memorial Park with Rev. Matt Powell officiating. The family will accept friends from 10:30 a.m. until service time at Tupelo Memorial Park. Pegues is in charge of the arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be made at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.