Clayton James

Clayton Ray James of Brandon, MS, died on October 2, 2020, at Mississippi Baptist Medical Center in Jackson. A family graveside service was held last year; however, Clayton had planned a detailed celebration of his life in 2015. A memorial service will be held for him on Saturday, October 2, 2021, at 2 P.M. at Covenant Presbyterian Church at 4000 Ridgewood Road in Jackson with a reception to follow in the church courtyard and fellowship hall.

Clayton was born in Memphis, TN, the son of R.A. and Jimmie Lou James. He graduated from Bartlett High School and received his B.A. from Bethel College in McKenzie, TN, and his M. Ed. from Delta State University in Cleveland.

Clayton was a passionate educator. He taught sixth grade at Lucy Webb Elementary School in Greenville. He was principal at Carrie Stern Elementary in Greenville and Northside Elementary in Pearl. He became assistant superintendent for Pearl Public Schools before retiring in 2008.

Outside of his work, Clayton was a dedicated person of faith. He was ordained as a deacon and ruling elder at First Presbyterian Church in Greenville as well as at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Jackson. He deepened his faith through participation in the programs of Perichoresis Ministries. He also enjoyed hunting, cooking, and traveling.

Clayton is survived by his wife of 47 years, Joanne Anderson James; his son, Rev. Clayton Anderson “Andy” James of Raleigh, NC; two sisters, Deloris Fuller (Bill) of Memphis, TN, and Cheriadeth Rutledge (Bob) of Columbia, TN; and a brother, Larry James of Lakeland, TN. He was predeceased by his parents and a sister, Betty Potts.