JAMES PEMBERTON

James Beck "Papa Jim" Pemberton departed this life for his forever home with Molly on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. Jim was born at home nearly a century ago, in New Orleans, Louisiana in the Algiers community on December 18th, 1925. He graduated from Martin Behram High School in New Orleans in 1943 and then proudly enlisted in the United States Army. He served his country wholeheartedly as part of the Transportation Corp. in World War II where he served alongside his dear best friend, Verdon Fitch. Following his honorable discharge from the US Army, he continued his selfless service to his country by joining the US Merchant Marines where he traveled the world for several years, and shared adventure stories with family and friends over a good glass of his favorite bourbon. He later built homes and other construction projects and owned Kreole Lumber Company. He loved farming, hunting, the outdoors, and his beloved schnauzer Dixie. He held his favorite job as owner and operator of his own farm in Escatawpa, MS, where he cultivated prized blackberries, blueberries, and mayhaws. Always a proud Veteran, he continued serving in many ways, most notably as bingo extraordinaire at the American Legion or as a devout member of the Honor Guard in honor of fellow Veterans who left before him. Jim is preceded in death by his father, John H. Pemberton, Mother, Laura Pemberton, Wife, Molly Pemberton, Son Steve Verdon Pemberton-(whom he named after his fallen WWII friend), Brothers John and David Pemberton, Sister, Ruth Stam, and Stepson, Glen Pinson. He leaves behind many who will cherish his memory and miss him greatly: Children-Pam Pemberton, Hal (Mary) Walker, Suzzanne Redd, and Donna Atkinson. Grandchildren: Cheryl (Ioannis) Zafiris, Joli (Jason) Lauban, Jordan (Gellian) DuPre, Molly Pinson, Courtney (Lewis McElderry) Pemberton, Lacey (Nick) McElderry, Amanda (Andy Eaton) Edwards and Jan Pinson. Great Grandchildren: Laine Lauban, Basil Zafiris, Fiona McElderry, Clara and Reese McElderry, and Julianna and Elias DuPre. The family will honor Jim's memory with military service honors in a private ceremony. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim's memory can be made to the American Legion in Pascagoula or Gautier, or Schnauzer Love Rescue, 2924 19th Street N., Hueytown, AL 35023. Officiating graveside service will be Breaux Tageant at Serene Memeorial Garden Cemetery, Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 2pm.

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JAMES PEMBERTON

December 18, 1925 - January 15, 2025