Thomas Delano "Bear" James
Obituary
Mr. Thomas Delano “Bear” James, 82, of Coward, passed away on Friday, February 27, 2026, at his home.
Mr. James was born on June 12, 1943, in Florence County, son of Thomas Printess James and Margie Evans Estelle. Mr. James was a proud graduate of Lake City High School, Class of 1961, and a faithful member of Friendfield Pentecostal Holiness Church. He retired from Delta Mills after 30 years of dedicated service. In addition to his work at the mill, he was the owner and founder of James Used Cars, where he spent many years serving the community. Known as a true “jack of all trades,” Mr. James could repair or build almost anything and was always willing to lend a helping hand to friends, neighbors, and family. He took pride in his work and enjoyed staying busy.
Surviving are his children, Maria James of Scranton, Michael (Heather) James of Scranton, and Maxie (Lisa) James of Effingham; grandchildren, Brice (Amber) James, Thomas (Abbigail) James, Sara (Dylan) James, Andrew (Joye) James, Gavin (Haley) James, Austin (Lexie) McDonald and Harper James; 4 great grandchildren; sisters, Annie Voncille Foxworth and Janice James (Tommy) Floyd.
Mr. James was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Molly “Deloris” Keith James; brothers, Dexter LaWayne James and George Harold James; sister, Clara White Smith.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt “Thanks” to the ladies of The Little Fisher for all their love and concern for our Daddy. You not only fed his Body, you fed his Soul.
The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00 PM, Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Friendfield Pentecostal Holiness Church. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 PM in the church sanctuary with burial to follow in the Friendfield Pentecostal Holiness Church Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Friendfield PH Church Home Missions Program or Cemetery Fund, 2019 S. Friendfield Road, Scranton, SC 29591.
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