Marshville – Mr. Earl James, 90, passed away May 29, 2022 at his home.  Born February 24, 1932 in Union County, he was a son of the late Cecil & Ida Mae James. He was also preceded in death by siblings, Gladys James Taylor and Harold James.

He worked in the poultry industry most of his life. He was Manager at Holly Farms Poultry in Monroe for approximately 25 years.  His hobbies were barbecuing chicken for his family and for his church family on Labor Day, lake activities, playing dominoes, and he took up woodworking at age 86 and made various pieces of furniture for each family member as well as many friends. He was the oldest lifetime member of Austin Grove Baptist Church, serving in several capacities such as Deacon, Sunday School teacher and choir member. He was a true leader with a servant's heart. He loved his church so much.

A funeral service to celebrate the life of Earl will be 2:30 PM Thursday, June 2, 2022 at Austin Grove Baptist Church followed by burial in the church cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 1-2:15 in the church sanctuary.

Mr. James is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Janice Little James; children, Rhonda Long (Roger), Roger James (Cindy), Ken James, Jodi Epps (Barry); grandchildren, Maleah Batchelor (Robert), Jamie Long (Heather), Stuart James (Aleque), Austin James (Kristen), Abbie James, Madison James (Shawn Line), Derrick Epps (Rebeka), Jordan Epps, Spencer James; great grandchildren, Cade Batchelor, Chase Batchelor, Jalen Long, Jaron Long, Makenna Batchelor, Logan James, Makenly Batchelor, Bryson James, Emmett James, Nora James,  and one great grandchild on the way, Annie Jane Epps; sister, Helen James Presson.

Memorials can be made to the Austin Grove Baptist Church, 5919 Austin Grove Church Road, Marshville, NC  28103.

Morgan & Son Funeral Home is serving the family of Mr. James.