James Earl Stox

James Earl Stox, 86, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 9 early in the morning surrounded by his family.
A Visitation will be held at Freedom Baptist Church, Saturday, April 19th, 1:30 to 3:00 pm. The Service starts at 3:00 pm.
James Earl was born in Pitt County to James Jefferson and Virginia Belle Stox. He grew up in Winterville and graduated from Winterville High School in 1957. James Earl married his love, Janita, on October 23, 2004 and they lived in Ayden. He retired in 2004 from United Machine Works in Greenville. After retiring, he worked with Mount Calvary Free Will Baptist Church in Hookerton. James Earl was known around Eastern NC as being one of the best bass guitar players. He originally started with his band the "Impalas" in his younger years. He was also a member of the Super Grit Cowboy band. He was saved in 1978 and became a member of the gospel group "Moving Up". He spoke frequently of his wonderful memories touring. Recently, he was a faithful member of The Backyard Boys who sang at local nursing homes entertaining the residents.
He was a member of Mount Calvary Free Will Baptist Church in Hookerton from 1978 to 2017. He then became a member of Freedom Baptist Church in Ayden. He enjoyed playing the bass during church service. James Earl would be at his church no matter what was going on with his health. He has fought cancer since 2019 although he passed away from pneumonia.
James Earl was preceded in death by his father James Jefferson Stox, mother Virginia Belle Stox, son Richard Earl Stox, sister in law Dolly Stox, brothers in law Bobby Bowen and Randy Bowen, and mother in law Mary Bowen.
Surviving are his wife of 20 years Janita Bowen Stox, daughter Karen Lynn Sutton from Emerald Isle, son Kevin Wayne Stox from Smithfield, daughter in law Judy Merritt Stox from Hookerton, stepdaughter Carla and husband Timothy Gray from Greenville. Also survived by five grandchildren Dustin Wood, Casey Wood, Meredith Smith, Paige Thereault, and Jayden Stox. Along with two step grandchildren Chandler and Tyler Gray, seven greatgrandchildren, and his special pet Coco.
Survived by Brother Dr. Lorenza Stox and wife B from Greenville, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews.
Special Thanks and Recognition:
Timothy and Carla Gray for being with James Earl at this difficult time. He depended on them for medical advice, help, and support while in the hospital.
Freedom Baptist Church/Ladies Auxillary for their love, prayers, and support. We appreciate all the daily prayers.
Close friends Terry and Vickie Harrington, Michael Harrington, and all the Freedom Baptist Church Band.
Judy and Leon Harris who would make sure James Earl had chicken & rice soup and his favorite, chocolate pie.
Pam Penny for taking care of our dog Coco.
James Earl had many friends, we would love to thank them all for everything that has been done during his illness.
In Lieu of flowers memorials are encouraged to be given to Janita Stox, in c/o Freedom Baptist Church, 234 Snow Hill Street, Ayden, NC 28513.