Robert Gerald James, 80, of Olive Branch, MS went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 3, 2022 in Byhalia, MS. He was born on November 8, 1941 to the Late W.R. and Idell James in Faulkner, MS. Gerald was an a member of Longview Heights. He enjoyed going to Sunday school and drinking coffee with his friends. Gerald’s greatest passion was his cattle. He enjoyed being outside and on the family farm. Gerald was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Shirley Hamilton James, and a grandson, Tommy Simmons. He leaves behind his loving wife of 17 years, Billie Ann Sparks Hamilton James; a son, Rodney James; and three step children, Annette Hamilton Shump (Dave), Keith Hamilton (Angie), and Lynn Hamilton Folkerts (Bernie); a sister, Diane Schwanke. Gerald also leaves behind eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, March 10, 2022 at 2:00 pm with visitation beginning at 1:00 pm at Longview Heights Baptist Church, 4501 Goodman Rd. Olive Branch, MS 38654. Burial will follow at Byhalia Cemetery in Byhalia, Ms. In Lieu of flowers the family request that memorial contributions be made to Longview Heights Baptist Church "Building Fund." Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brantleyfuneral.com for the James family.
