James White, 63, of Phenix City, AL, passed on Monday, July 27, 2026 in Columbus, GA.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. EST, Saturday, August 1, 2026 at New Central Baptist Church, Phenix City, AL with burial in Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Smiths Station, AL. Public viewing will be from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST on Friday, July 31, 2026 at Taylor Funeral Home.

On May 2, 1963 to his loving parents, the Late Havell “Haywood” Kimber and Barbara White Kimber in Smiths Station, AL. He would later become affectionately known as “Jab” to those who loved and cared for him. “Jab” was the big brother to his sisters, Scill, Lisa, and Deb. Family meant the world to this gentle giant whose protective love grounded them all.

During his formative years, “Jab” learned the basics of life in the Lee County School District and Phenix City Schools. He graduated in Central High School’s Class of 1983. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at an early age and later joined the fellowship of believers at New Central Missionary Baptist Church where he worshipped with his entire family. He loved the Lord whom he praised daily. Jab was a hard-worker and provider. James was employed for many years at Swift Textiles as a Spinner until its closing. He later went to work for Marurbeni Textiles as a Spinner before going to work at Alatrade Foods as a forklift operator. When Alatrade closed its doors, Jab retired.

James truly enjoyed retired life because it gave him more time to do what he loved the most. Jab had an infectious personality. He had the biggest and most hearty laugh that at the mere sound of him caused everyone around him to laugh out loud too. He told “exaggerated stories” to keep the fun going at family gatherings. His favorite saying, “You think I’m lying don’t you....well, I ain’t lying” was recited more than a few times around the family. Jab also loved to watch movies, do yard work, take immaculate care of his Chevy Silverado, and be the all around handyman for his loved ones. He valued spending time with his family especially his niece, Kierra, whom he reared as his daughter; his great nephew, Khristan, and his great niece, Kha’lani all of whom he adored dearly. He also flourished every moment that he had to spend time with his mother, Barbara. He held her near and dear to his heart. She was the love of his life.

On Monday, July 27, 2026, God opened the gates to welcome His son to his eternal resting place. He is preceded in death by his father, Haywood Kimber; his brother, Jeffrey Kimber; his grandparents, George White, Sr. and Adele White and A.C. Kimber and Eva Kimber; his uncles, Leroy White and George White Jr.; his nephew; Christian D. Phillips; and a cousin, Angela White.

James’ most precious memories will be remembered most by his survivors: his loving and devoted mother, Barbara (White) Kimber of Phenix City, AL; his three devoted sisters, Priscilla A. (Matthew) Wilson of Phenix City, AL, Deborah K. (Steven) Phillips of Smiths Station, AL and Lisa (Calvin) Pitts of Phenix City, AL; his beloved niece whom he loved as his daughter, Kierra J. Kimber of Phenix City, AL; two nephews, Deven A. Phillips of Smiths Station, AL and Kalen D. Wilson of Phenix City, AL; one great-nephew, Khristan D. Robinson of Phenix City, AL; one great niece, Kha’lani Z.Wilson of Phenix City, AL; a special cousin, Terrance (Shasta) Kimber of Phenix City, AL; three great aunts, Alice Cartwright of East Chicago, IN, Johnnie M. Morgan of Smiths Station, AL, and Odessa Morgan of Merriville, IN; two aunts, Gloria Scott of Phenix City, AL and Edna A. Cochran of Chicago, IL; one uncle, Clarence (Diane) Kimber, Sr. of Columbus, GA; a special friend, Joe Harris of Phenix City, AL; and a host of cousins and friends.

Funeral Service

Aug

1

New Central Baptist Church

1702 24th Street
Phenix City, Alabama 36867

11:00 AM