James Elvin Earnest

James was born in Mathiston, MS on September 25, 1942 to Billie Lou Paxton Earnest and Elvin C. Earnest. He graduated from Indianola High School.

Showing an admirable work ethic from a young age, he entered the Air Force after graduation to earn money for his college tuition. His young, adventurous spirit was evident as he navigated planes as they refueled in the air.

He later went on to earn a degree in Accounting from Delta State University and his MBA from the University of Mississippi. He was incredibly smart with a love for theory, research, numbers, and math.

A mutual friend introduced him to the love of his life, Virginia Lynn Blackwell. They married soon after and together had one child, Leigh Brannon Earnest.

Leigh was the apple of his eye and they had a special father/daughter bond that was evident to anyone who saw them together or listened to them talk about one another. He took great pride in her accomplishments as a teacher and a counselor. Education was a topic that was extremely important to him, and it was critical for his little girl to continue on that path. In turn, Leigh was blessed to learn many valuable lessons from her daddy. He taught her the importance of keeping your word, following through with commitments, loving unconditionally, and he fostered a love of family and Jesus in her heart. Growing up, whenever Leigh told him something was too hard- he would say, “Well, dear, if it were easy; everyone would be doing it.”

James worked as a Certified Public Accountant and enjoyed attending various seminars throughout the southeast as well as traveling to New Orleans frequently with his family to enjoy live music, great food, and family time. Although he graduated from Delta State and Ole Miss, he loved cheering on the Alabama Crimson Tide with his wife and daughter.

James was a family man who lived firmly by tradition and values. He successfully built a career as a CPA in the metro-area and steadily carried out those strong values until his last breath. He cared deeply for his family. He did this not out of obligation, but because being a husband, father, provider and caregiver epitomized who he was. Trustworthiness, honesty, and kindness were traits he exhibited in his daily life.

James is survived by his wife, Virginia B. Earnest, and his daughter, Leigh B. Earnest. He showed unwavering support of Virginia through her recent illness. He supported Leigh as she took on a caretaker role. His patience was a testament of what marriage vows and love should look like.

He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Cascielle Earnest Little of Oxford, MS.

We cannot express how dearly loved and how incredibly missed this kind, gentle soul will be in the days ahead. We treasure our memories and covet your prayers.

Funeral services will be held at St. Columb’s Episcopal Church in Ridgeland, MS on December 19, 2022 at 2:00 pm with a reception to follow. Visitation for James E. Earnest will be held at St. Columb’s on December 19, 2022 at 1:00 pm.