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Obituary For James Epps
11/17/1940 - 01/14/2026
OBITUARY:
James Epps was born on November 17, 1940, in Keirn, MS, to the late Jonas Epps, Jr. and Mae Willie Booker Epps. Affectionately known as “Neil” by his family, he was the fourth child of eighteen born to this union. James recieved his early education at East Bank Elementary School and later attended Milestone Secondary School. At a young age, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at Bethany Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. J. Jackson. Due to financial circumstance of his family, James left school and began what would become a lifelong career in farming. He found joy and purpose working the land, especially gardening and landscaping-labors that reflected patience, diligence and love for God's creation.
James united in holy matrimony with his beautiful and devoted wife of over 62 years, Bobbie Jean Harper Epps. Together, they joined St. Peter Rock Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. E.W. Roberts. James was later ordained as Deacon under Pastor Melvin Jones, a servant role he fulfilled faithfully and humbly until his transition. James will always be remembered as a humble, selfless man with a gentle spirit. In his early years, he enjoyed hunting and fishing and had a lifelong love for all sports. As a young child, his daughter, Jeannie, learned to share that love of sports & Dallas Cowboys by watching games with him. Above all, James was devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He was beloved by all who knew him.
On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, James transitioned peacefully into the arms of our Heavenly Father, where he is totally healed. He was preceded in death by son, Antone Melton; daughter, Virginia Griffin, and grandson, Courtney James. He was also preceded in death by two sisters, Lucressia E. Jordan and Willie Mae Epps Claybrook, four brothers, Jimmy, JD, Frank and Williams “Sonny” Epps and a special aunt, Lillian (Bill)Anderson.
James's life love and legacy will be forever cherished by his faithful and loyal wife, Bobbie J. Epps; his daughters, Diana Griffin(Ben)Townsend, Jeannie Harper(JB)James, Lillie Young, Mae Willie Epps and Yolanda Epps; and his sons, James (Cassandra) Melton and Kendrick(Reva)Smith.
He is also survived by his sisters, Rosie Lee Epps Moore, Mamie(Bob) Holden, Lillian Epps, Annie Mae Epps(LC)Granderson and Eddie Mae Epps Fondren. A loving and supportive brother, Sammie(Kathy)Epps and brother, Robert Epps. Aunts, Dr. Fannye Epps Love, Dorothy Epps and an Uncle, Sam “Skeet” Epps. James also leaves and abundance of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephew, extended family and friends.
There are no words to express the gratitude for the unwavering love and support of our Clay Family! Our Dad loved and appreciated you all.
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I'm so sorry for your loss. May God's love surround you and your family during this difficult time, and may He grant you peace and comfort. You are in my prayers.
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