James Earnest Edenfield, 81, of Screven, Georgia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, after a courageous battle with illness, July 2, 2026.

Born and raised in Screven, James built a life defined by hard work, faithfulness, and an unwavering love for his family. He spent many years as a proud Journeyman Lineman and member of the IBEW. He also honorably served as a Reservist in the Coast Guard. After returning home to Georgia with his family, he continued doing the work he loved until a workplace electrical accident caused permanent damage to his heart, bringing an end to the career that had become such a part of who he was.

Although he could no longer climb poles, he never stopped being a lineman at heart. Every drive down the road became a lesson as he pointed out different types of utility poles or shared stories about climbing heights most people wouldn’t dare attempt. His pride in his work never faded, and neither did his love of sharing those memories.

James was a proud member of Screven Lodge No. 368, where he was a dedicated Mason who cherished the principles of brotherhood, charity, and service. He was also a proud Shriner, finding great purpose in supporting an organization devoted to helping children and serving others.

When he wasn’t talking about power lines, he could usually be found outdoors. He loved farming alongside his son, growing watermelons, cantaloupes, peanuts, and winter rye before taking their harvest to market. He found peace tending his bee hives and took great pride in producing honey. During hunting season, he especially enjoyed running deer dogs with his son and, every now and then, convincing his daughter to tag along for the adventure.

In his later years, he became a devoted Atlanta Braves fan. If you stopped by while the Braves were playing, chances are you were going to sit down and listen to the game right alongside him. And if it was a Monday or Wednesday night, the television was tuned to WWE. He loved every minute of it. 

James never met a stranger. If you went anywhere with him, you could count on stopping while he struck up a conversation with someone. He loved telling stories—about his younger days, climbing poles, hunting with his deer dogs, or the unforgettable day he accidentally shot a hole through the floorboard of his truck. His stories were full of laughter, and he had a remarkable gift for making everyone around him feel like an old friend.

Of all the roles he held in life, none meant more than being a husband, Daddy, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared an extraordinary 60 years of marriage with the love of his life, Sally Ann. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and security. James worked tirelessly to make sure his family was always cared for, and they never doubted how deeply they were loved.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Sally Ann Edenfield; his daughters and sons-in-law, Jessica and Michael Jones, and Leslie and Shelton Westberry; his granddaughter, Emily Manning and her partner, Evan Westberry; his grandson, Hunter Manning and his wife, Brooke, and their son Emerson James, who held a very special place in his heart. His sister Irene Riendeau, nephew’s Chris and Robert Riendeau and niece Tina Smith. Several great nieces and nephews as well. He also leaves behind his faithful companions, Joey and Buttercup, who were always close by.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, James Earnest Edenfield Jr.; his parents, Thelma Stanfield Edenfield and John Reedy Edenfield; and his sister, Iletha Brooks, brother in law Yank Riendeau, Nephew Mike Riendeau, great nephew Christopher Riendeau.

While his family grieves the loss of the sweetest soul they have ever known, they find comfort in knowing his legacy lives on—in every story retold, every field planted, every jar of honey, every hunt, every power pole that catches their eye, and every lesson he quietly taught through a life of honesty, hard work, and unconditional love.

To know James was to know kindness. To love him was a blessing. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the incredible caregivers who loved James so well throughout his journey. To his favorite nurses—Robin, April, Lydia, and Cheyenne—thank you for always making “Poppy” feel like one of your own. Your kindness, compassion, and genuine love brought comfort not only to him, but to our entire family.

A heartfelt thank you also goes to Dr. Pumpelly, Becky, Karen, Chris, and Jessica for the exceptional care, friendship, and support you gave him over the years. You became so much more than his healthcare team—you became part of our family.

Dr. Pumpelly, James wanted to leave you with one final message. He always looked forward to his appointments because, as he would say, he got to “give you hell.” With a smile, he wanted you to know that his “two-stroke” finally gave up. We know you’ll understand exactly what he meant, and we hope it brings the same smile to your face that it brings to ours.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.