Carlon James of Newport, Arkansas, departed this life on Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021, at the age of 82.
He was born Dec. 31, 1938, at Tuckerman, the son of Sidney Earl and Afton (Keeter) James.
James was a 1957 graduate of Tuckerman High School.
On August 4, 1962, Mr. Carlon James married the love of his life, Miss Glenda Sue White. Together they enjoyed 58 years, building a life together, and raising their two children.
James was the owner and operator of Carlon James Motor Company for over 50 years.
He was active in the Newport Community, serving as a member of the Newport City Council, and assisting in the restoration of the Jackson County courthouse clock. James was also a former member of the Kiwanis Club.
He had an adoration for all things automotive, and especially loved his Corvettes!
James was a charter member of the Great American Rally Race. He had a great interest in restoring cars, including a 1957 Thunderbird.
James lived his life to the fullest and was a friend to all. He never met a stranger and was known among his community as a friendly, happy person.
James enjoyed barefoot skiing, snow skiing, dancing, and decorating for the holidays. His greatest love was the love he had for his family, especially his grandchildren.
He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Newport.
James was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister-in-law, Patsy James.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sue (White) James of the home; one son, Greg James, and wife, Jennifer, of Auvergne; one daughter, Kristi Miller, and husband, Joey, of Newport; three grandchildren, Dylan James, Karli Jo Miller, and Max Miller; one brother, Stanley James of Newport; one sister, Peggy Garrison, and husband, Jewell Dean, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; many extended families; and a lifetime of friends.
Graveside services are 2:00 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021, at Watson Cemetery with Rev. Greg Dills officiating.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Wayne Beard, Jr., Dale Eaves, Jim Heatherly, Dr. Jabez Jackson, Jr., Dickie Morris, Chip Soulsby, and Dorsey Wilmans.
Honorary pallbearers are Dr. Guilford Dudley, Johnny Gipson, Phil McDonald, Larry “Buckshot” Nicholson, Richard Peel, and Dean Young.
Memorials may be made to the Jackson County Humane Society, P.O. Box 154, Newport, AR 72112, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, P.O. Box 2222, Little Rock, AR 72203, or First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 219, Newport, AR 72112.
Arrangements by Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home.
