SGM James Frederick Exum Ret.

He was born on June 4, 1933 in Tarboro, North Carolina to the late William Arthur Exum and Amanda Cobb Exum. He joined Free Union Baptist Church, Lawrence, NC in 1948, graduated from Conetoe High School, Conetoe, North Carolina in 1952.

SGM James F. Exum was preceded in death a year ago by his loving & devoted wife of nearly 67 years Maggie Rae, his children Marvin, Terry, twins Michael & Missy, and other family members.

He is survived by his son Quintin, daughters Phyllis, Pamela and Stephanie Renee, granddaughter Stephanie Michelle & her husband Rusty, cousin Mary, all the Exum cousins, nieces Henrietta & Angela and other family members.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. James took pride in taking care of his family as God and family always came first.

He was adored by so many for his warm accepting personality. He was always eager to help anyone. James was a hard worker that took great pride in everything he did, even the little things. He kept that energy and work ethic throughout his life. He was always very active and busy and loved to do his yardwork. Everyone in the neighborhood would always wave as they walked or drove by. No one believed he was 90! He left his mark on everyone and will be greatly missed by all.

SGM Exum entered the U.S. Army in 1953 and continued to serve his country proudly for many years. He was stationed at many army bases in the US and overseas, which included Korea, Vietnam and Germany. His family accompanied him on two overseas tours, Wurzburg, Germany in 1960 and Munich, Germany in 1967. He attended the University of Maryland, Munich branch while stationed there.

SGM Exum successfully completed numerous courses at Military Schools including the Inspector General Orientation Course in Washington DC; Personnel Staff NCO Course at the US Army Adjutant General School in Fort Benjamin Harrison, IN; and the CBR Enlisted Course at the US Army Chemical School in Fort McClellan, AL.

SGM Exum received numerous awards, declarations and medals to include: Legion of Merit; Bronze Star (First Oak Leaf Cluster); Air Medal; Meritorious Service Medal (First Oak Leaf Cluster); Army Commendations Medal (Second Oak Leaf Cluster); Good Conduct Medal (9th Award); Vietnam Service Medal; National Defense Service Medal (First Oak Leaf Cluster); Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal; and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.

After completing thirty years of service, he retired as a SGM E-9, the highest enlisted grade in the US Army. After retiring from the Army, James went on to work for the US Postal Service in San Antonio, Texas. He was nominated for employee of the year for his division and won. He also received numerous safety awards and commendations. After completing fifteen years with the US Postal Service, he retired a second time.

He proudly served his country with distinction. We are so very proud of all his accomplishments and the legacy he has left behind.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunsetfuneralhomesa.com for the Exum family.