James Tarver

Obituary For James Tarver

James Tarver, 60, passed on January 5, 2026 in Opelika, AL.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. EST on January 17, 2026 at Shady Grove Baptist Church, 1204 Rutherford Rd, Eufaula, AL., with Pastor Ike Richardson, Pastor, Rev. Robert Toney, officiant, Eulogist. Public viewing is 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST on Friday, January 16, 2026.

James Cadet Tarver, well known to family and friends as “Dynar,” the dancing machine, was born on February 10, 1965, in Russell County to the late Rosie Lee Tarver and Eddie Lias.

He confessed Christ at a very young age and spent much of his time in prayer while visiting several churches. He was very fond of his Antioch Church family in Pittsview, AL, and was later welcomed with open arms by his new church family, Shiloh AME Zion Church in Opelika, AL under the guidance of Reverend Steven Faulk.

He attended Russell High School in Hurtsboro, AL where he enjoyed spending time with many family members and friends. Mr. James Tarver was a former employee of many companies, working in locations ranging from Hatchechubbee, AL. to Montgomery and Opelika, AL and Columbus, GA. He was never afraid to venture out and start something new.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Mr. Nathan Lias, Mr. Eddie James Lias, and Mr. Kenny Tarver, and by his beloved sister, Ms. Roberta Lias.

Mr. James Tarver leaves to cherish his memory his two brothers, Lieutenant (Latina) Tarver of East Chicago and Clarence Tarver of Hurtsboro, AL; two sisters, Delores (David) Chase of Hammond, IN; and Eltoria (James) Samuel of Southfield, MI.

The Lord knew Mr. Tarver was tired, heard His son cry, and took His child home to rest.

He also leaves behind a devoted nephew, McDuffie Lias, Jr. of Hurtsboro, AL; a devoted niece, Cassandra Hodo of Smiths Station, AL; a special devoted friend of many years, Ms. Bettye Harris of Opelika, AL; a cousin who treated him like a brother and true friend, Mr. William Daniels of Hurtsboro, AL; and a aunt who was like a second mother that loved him dearly, Aunt Eddie Lou Upshaw Mack of Pittsview, AL. He also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews.

Mr. Tarver was loved by many.

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