James “Jim” Bowden Southerland Jr 

It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of James “Jim” Bowden Southerland Jr., age 86, on May 18, 2026, in Tarboro. Just six days after the loss of his beloved wife of 58 years, Jackie Southerland, they simply could not bear to be without each other and are now reunited in eternal peace. 

While we grieve his loss deeply, we also celebrate the remarkable life of a devoted husband, loving daddy, proud grandpa, loyal friend, and faithful son of God. 

Born on April 22, 1940, in Albertson, North Carolina, Jim was the cherished son of the late James Bowden Southerland Sr. and Eva Summerlin Southerland. He lived a life defined by hard work, quiet wisdom, steadfast integrity, and unwavering devotion to his family. 

Raised in Duplin County, Jim was a respected member of his community from an early age. He excelled in athletics, earning recognition as “Most Athletic” and serving as Class Vice President of Grady High School in Albertson. He later attended The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a source of lifelong pride, and remained a devoted Tar Heels fan throughout his life.

Jim honorably served in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. Following his service, he began his career with Carolina Telephone as a Revenue Accounting Manager, where he met the love of his life, Jackie. Together, they built not only a beautiful marriage and family, but also a lasting business legacy through Big Jim’s Food Marts and Big Jim’s Express. 

Jim was deeply proud of his work ethic and carried himself as a true Southern gentleman. Beyond his personal achievements, his greatest accomplishment was the life he built beside Jackie. Their 63-year love story was rooted in loyalty, sacrifice, faith, and unconditional love. To witness them journey through life together - and leave this world only days apart - is a testament to a bond that could never be broken. 

As the patriarch of his family, Jim believed in structure, accountability, and doing things the right way. Beneath the exterior stern nature, was a deeply loving father and a tender-hearted grandpa. His guidance, wisdom, humor, and steady presence shaped the lives of all who knew and loved him. 

Jim found great joy in his family, his church community, and the simple blessings of everyday life. He was loyal, compassionate, and endlessly devoted to caring for those he loved. His faith was reflected not only in word, but in action, through his generous support of his church and community and his selfless dedication to causes close to his heart. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, strength, and countless cherished memories. 

He is survived by his sons, James “Jamie” Bowden Southerland III of Tarboro and James “Tim” Smith (Darlene) of Rocky Mount; his grandchildren, Heather Perry (Ronnie) of Middlesex, Hannah Smith (Keith) of Raleigh, and James “JT” Smith Jr. of Raleigh; his sister, Eva Jan Hoffman of Bristol, TN; his brother, Daniel “Danny” Southerland (Frances) of Nashville; and many beloved siblings in-law, nieces, nephews, neighbors, and dear friends. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Jacqueline “Jackie” Dell Hawkins Southerland; his son, William Ervin Smith; his parents, James Bowden Southerland Sr. and Eva Summerlin Southerland; his sister, Yvonne Southerland Griffin; and his beloved companion, Mick. 

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Jim and Jackie’s caregiver, Marsha Hornbuckle, the ICU staff at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital, and the loving community of Sunset Church of God for the compassion, care, and support shown during this difficult time.

 A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 20, at 6:00 p.m. at Carlisle Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 21, at 2:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel, officiated by Pastor Jody Harrison. Burial will immediately follow at Edgecombe Memorial Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Sunset Church of God, 1709 Anaconda Road, Tarboro, NC 27886. 

The family asks that Jim be remembered not with sadness alone, but with the warmth, laughter, strength, and unconditional love he so generously shared throughout his wonderful life.

 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" - 2 Timothy 4:7