James was born December 25,1938 to Mary Evelyn and James Monroe Blackburn.  He departed this life on April 4, 2025 at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center.

James attended Carver High School. He was a member of Piney Grove Baptist Church.  During his career, he was employed by Hoots Concrete. After retirement from Hoots Concrete, he worked for TK Hauling.  James had a love for trucks and cars.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents; granddaughter, Alexus Jean Blackburn; sister, Marie Blackburn Howie.

He leaves behind his wife of 53 years, Jeanne Smart Blackburn; three sons, Joseph Conrad, Jamie Blackburn Jr., Jathan Blackburn; five grandchildren, Martin Blackburn, Jathan Blackburn, Jamieson Blackburn, Delana Davis, Jaidyn Blackburn; niece, Ruby Blackburn; nephew, James Howie Jr; and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am Saturday April 19, 2025 in the chapel of Hooper Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 10:30am 11:00am at the funeral home