James Earl Stafford, 74, of Phenix City passed on Saturday, February 14, 2026 in Phenix City, AL.

Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. EST on Monday, February 23, 2026 at Evening Sunset Cemetery with Pastor Albert Stafford, Sr., officiating. Public visitation will be held prior to the service at the cemetery from 9:00 a.m. till 10:00 a.m. EST.

James Earl Stafford was born to the late George H. Stafford and the late Verna M. Jacobs in Phenix City, Alabama. James Earl was a hardworking laborer who developed skills through apprenticeship as an electrician, home builder, auto mechanic, and factory worker. He gave his life to Christ at an early age and became a faithful member of Liberty Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories, one daughter, Renita Howe; two granddaughters, Siera Shentez Thomas and Sebrina Kierra Stafford; one great-grandson, Amir Bentley Stafford of Columbus, Georgia; his siblings, Pastor Albert (Tommie) Stafford, Patricia (Donald) Williams, Mary Latimore (Oscar), Rev. Charles Stafford, all of Columbus, Georgia, Rev. Melvin Stafford, Walter (Evelyn) Jacobs, Collis Jacobs, all of Phenix City, Alabama, Debra Huntley, Sherry Spidell (Gary) of Sylacauga, Alabama, and Gloria Thomas of Birmingham, Alabama. We additionally recognize the in-laws and a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family.