James Brinkley, 91, of Drexel, NC, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Friday, January 22, 2016 following a period of declining health. Born March 23, 1924 in Burke County, James was the son of the late Guy Brinkley and Mary Agnes Brinkley Ribet. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marzelle Brinkley, to whom he was married for 65 wonderful years until she passed away in 2012. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by siblings, Evelyn Young and Charles Brinkley and great-grandson Christian Churchill.
He was a decorated WWII veteran, serving in the Army. During his life he was an active member of the Drexel community. He owned multiple businesses; served as a Post Commander of the American Legion Post 398, and remained an active member of the organization throughout his life. He was an avid bowler and loved to play golf, into his 80’s. He loved big family gatherings and spending time with his friends.
A loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, James is survived by his children, Melva B. Huffman and husband, Norman, Elaine B. Arrant and husband, W.B., and James Timothy Brinkley and wife, Annette, all of Drexel; grandchildren, Jamie A. Huffman, Kimberly A. Payne and husband, Randy, Melissa B. Churchill and husband, Kris, Kristy H. King and husband, Brad, Matt Barrier and wife, Brandi, Mark Barrier and wife Kristen, Brent Brinkley and wife, Sommer, and Alycen Brinkley; and twelve great-grandchildren along with one great-great-grandchild and two sisters, Betty Early of Lenoir, NC and Jane Gardner of Drexel, NC, who all adored him.
The family will receive friends at 11am at Sossoman Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 26th, followed by the service in the chapel at 12 pm. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park with military honors provided by the N.C. National Guard and the Caldwell County Veterans Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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