James Yarbrough Sr.

James Yarbrough was born June 1, 1940, the youngest of seven (7) children to the late Steve and Birda Yarbrough in Lee County Arkansas. His siblings included, Bennie, Flozelle, Erma Jean, Ella Mae, Bertha Lee and Odelia. He departed this life and entered eternal rest with his Lord Jesus Christ on May 21, 2023.

James attended Lee County Public Schools and graduated from Moton High School. In 1959, following the completion of one year of college he enlisted in the United States Air Force. James met the love of his life, Agnes Yarbrough in 1964 in Columbus, Ohio. They became one through Holy Matrimony on December 27, 1967 and where married for forty-seven (47) wonderful years and had three (3) sons; Bruce, Keith and James, Jr.

The Air Force afforded James much success as he moved up the military ranks, as well as the opportunity for he and his family to see the world. James and his family left Columbus in 1967 and was stationed in various locations before returning back to Columbus in 1974. His military postings included Madrid, Spain; Taiwan, China; India and other places throughout the United States. Upon returning and re-stationed in Columbus, Brother James organized all of the air shows and fly overs at Rickenbacker Airport. His twenty (20) year distinguished military career included, a Veteran of the Vietnam War, a Senior Master Sergeant, Senior Non-Commissioned Operational Leader and an Aviator/Licensed Pilot before retiring honorably in 1979 after years of dedicated service to his country.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, James became employed with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a Certified Flight Inspector where he inspected flight safety on all commercial airlines as well as investigated plane crashes. This career appointment also afforded he and his family world travel and after twenty (20) years of dedicated service he retired from the FAA.

James, a man of many passions not only served his county well, but was also a community leader and advocate. As an avid supporter of the renowned Tuskegee Airman, he served as the Vice President of the Columbus Chapter, where he and other members provided scholarships to young students and advocated the pursuit of careers in aviation. In addition, he was a member of the Civil Air Patrol where he assisted youth in obtaining their aviation license.

James loved the Lord, his family and Gospel Lighthouse Church where he served on the Board of Directors, was a leader, faithful member and one who would always offer wise counsel. He will be remembered as a giving person with a sensitive, caring, kind spirit, devoted husband, father and grandfather who made sure everyone in his family was celebrated. James will be sorely missed.

He is proceeded in death by his Wife, Agnes Yarbrough; Parents, Steve and Birda Mae Yarbrough; Brothers, Bennie and Flozelle; Sisters, Erma Jean and Bertha Lee and Son, Keith.

James leaves to cherish his memory his Sons, Bruce and James Jr.; Daughter-in-law Paula; Granddaughter, Jasmin; Grandsons, Jametrius and Jaden; Sisters, Ella Mae Pierce and Odelia Wilson; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.