James E. Meadows, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, passed away on October 11, 2026, at Flo and Phil Hospice House surrounded by family and friends at the age of 75. He was born on September 21, 1951, in Jonesboro, and remained closely connected to the community that shaped his life.

James graduated from Jonesboro High School in 1969 after moving from Caraway in 1965.  He went on to build a life marked by hard work, practical skill, and a generous spirit. He was a carpenter, painter, and handyman, and in his later years worked at Home Depot. His hands were rarely still, and his work reflected the steady dedication he brought to the things he did each day.

He also found great joy in sports, both as a participant and as a fan. James loved playing tennis, basketball, softball, and golf. In his early years, he worked at Earle Bell Community Center, where he enjoyed mentoring children through sports programs, sharing not only his love of the games but also his encouragement and time. He also played softball for Bruce's Market Men's League and loved watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball and the Arkansas Razorbacks.

Above all, James will be remembered by those who knew and loved him best. He is survived by his life partner, Debi Kysar; his stepdaughter, Angelia Heringer (Carl); and his grandchildren, Lilly Heringer and Jackson Heringer, who were a meaningful part of his family life. He is also survived by his sisters, Diane Holmes (Sonny) of Franklin, Kentucky, Evelyn Gambill of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and Rita Scroggs (Bill) of Conway, Arkansas, his aunt, Sue Halk (Norman) of Cherry Valley, Arkansas; and lots of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Elzie "Wag" Meadows; his mother, Emma Meadows; his brother, Bobby Meadows; his infant sister, Mildred Sue Meadows; and brother-in-law, Stanley Gambill.

James E. Meadows will be remembered with affection and gratitude by his family and friends, and his memory will continue to live on in the lives he touched through his work, his love of sports, and the care he showed to others.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date.