James Earl Mead

James Earl Mead August 1, 1949 – February 17, 2025
James Earl Mead, 75, of Tifton, GA, passed away on February 17, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on August 1, 1949, he was raised in Valdosta, GA, with a short time spent in Suwanee, FL, before returning to his hometown.
A man of great skill, strength, and heart, James served his country with honor in the special operations unit of the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1971. After his military service, he pursued his passion for architecture and built a career as a general contractor, leaving behind structures as strong and enduring as the legacy he carried in his heart.
In 2004, James married the love of his life, Shirley Mead, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and devotion. He was a proud and dedicated father to Zachary and Nicole Chyzik of Hahira, GA; Joshua Chyzik of Illinois; Hannah Chyzik of Atlanta, GA; and Natalee Chyzik of Tifton, GA. He cherished his role as "Poppy" to his beloved granddaughter, Evie Rae Chyzik.
For over a decade, James served as a bus driver for Tift County Schools, where he found joy in his daily interactions with students, offering them kindness and guidance along their journeys. He had a deep love for working with his hands, whether building homes, crafting woodwork, or fixing things just to make them better. His happiest moments were spent at the beach in St. Simons with Shirley by his side, enjoying the sound of the waves and the simple pleasure of being together.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Dan and Skip Mead. He is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Mead of Tifton, GA; his siblings, William P. and Pat Mead of Hamilton, GA; Bobbi and Ed Fletcher of Melrose, FL; Danny J. Mead; and Joy Jennings of Valdosta, GA.
A service to celebrate James' life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Reflection Cremation & Funeral Service. A short visitation will take place from 11:00 to 11:30 AM, followed by a service beginning at 11:30 AM.
James will be cremated per his wishes, and while there will be no procession to a cemetery, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Should anyone wish to make a donation in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Though he has left this world, James leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and craftsmanship that will continue to live on in the lives he touched.