James McKinley Timpson

1944 - 2025

James McKinley Timpson, 81, of McDonough, Ga., passed away Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, at his home under the care of Southern Grace Hospice.
He was born on Feb. 10, 1944, in Murphy, N.C., the son of the late SSGT Cecil James Timpson and Mary Jo O'Dell Timpson.
James proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1962 until his honorable discharge from the U.S. Army Reserve in 1968. He attained the rank of Specialist Fifth Class and served as a Personnel Specialist. Serving during the Vietnam War era, he distinguished himself with skill and dedication. James earned multiple decorations, including the Marksman Badge (Rifle M-1), the Expert Badge (Carbine and Rifle M-14), and the Good Conduct Medal. His military career reflected his discipline, integrity and commitment to excellence.
Following his service, James built a long and successful career as a Financial Products Manager and Agent with State Farm Insurance
A man of deep faith, James was a devoted member of Glen Haven Baptist Church, where he found joy in worship and fellowship. A lifelong lover of gospel music, he lent his voice to many gospel ensembles over the years, sharing the message of hope through song.
Outside of his professional and church life, James was an avid golfer and an enthusiastic runner, participating in the Peachtree Road Race numerous times. He also found creative fulfillment in painting, often capturing the beauty of the landscapes and scenery of his hometown.
James is survived by his devoted wife, LaVonne Petty Timpson; his children, John Wesley Timpson and wife Lisa, Kenneth Devon Timpson, and Rebecca Timpson Cooke and husband Jason; grandchildren, Lauren Cooke and Lindsey Pollard and husband Michael. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Grayson Cooke and Graham Cooke. James leaves behind his sister, Patricia Kephart and husband Jerry; his brother-in-law, Terry S. Fair; his sister-in-law, Sharon Timpson; cousins who were like brothers, Darrell Timpson and Gary Timpson; and beloved nephew, Mike Timpson.
He will be missed by many extended family members and a host of friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Nancy Lynn Timpson and Lisa Timpson Fair; his brother, Francis Daniel Timpson; and a special cousin, Ronald Timpson.
The family received friends for a time of visitation from 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 17, at Cannon Cleveland Funeral Directors in McDonough, Ga.
A funeral service was held at noon Tuesday, Aug. 19, at Hiawassee Baptist Church with the Rev. Eddis Dockery officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery with Military Honors provided by the United States Army, Hayesville VFW Post 6812, Hayesville American Legion Post 532 and Murphy American Legion Post 96.
The family received friends from 11-11:50 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19, at the church prior to the services.
Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, was in charge of local arrangements.
An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhome.com.