James “Jimmy” Gallion

James “Jimmy” Gallion, 80, of Morganton, NC, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

Born in Jacksonville, FL on August 25, 1945, he was the son of the late Leroy Gallion and Frances Burgin Fredell.

Jimmy was a member of Smyrna Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. Jimmy worked and retired from Henredon Furniture in Spruce Pine after 32 years of service. He also worked for 2 years at Ethan Allen and at McDonalds in Newland, where he earned the nickname, Pops. His wife’s father also gave him the nickname, Half-pint, because he was no gallon. He loved singing, Gospel music, and playing cards with his grandchildren. Jimmy always had a smile on his face.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Stella Ann Barrier Gallion; children, Judy Beck (Johnny) and Jimmy John Gallion (Crystal); grandchildren, Elizabeth, Dawn, Sammy, Jessie, D.J., Johnathan, Harley, Anna, Gage, Jack, and Ashley; 24 great-grandchildren; brothers, Rev. Paul Mace (Yvonne) and Rev. Allen Fredell (Raylene); sisters, Juanita Xavier, Sharon Rose Dale (Grant), and Elizabeth “Lib” Patton (Randolph); and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by his daughter, Barbara Sue Moody; brother, Mark Mace and Charles “Tony” Burgin; and sisters, Babygirl Donna Fredell and Barbara Tallent.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 3 p.m., Friday, February 6, 2026 at Smyrna Baptist Church. The funeral will follow at 3 p.m. in the church with Revs. Paul Mace, Charlie Bradley, and Steve Williams officiating. The graveside service will be held at noon, Saturday, February 7, 2026 in the church cemetery..

Memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International or to Medi-Home Hospice.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.