James Julian Autry, Sr., 98, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 24, 2026, just one day shy of his 99th birthday.

James was born on April 25, 1927, in Sampson County to the late John Julian Autry and Emily Jane Starling Autry. Raised on a farm, he learned the value of hard work early in life—plowing fields behind a mule by the age of 10. Those early lessons shaped a lifetime defined by dedication, integrity, and perseverance.

After working in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, as well as with R.Z. McGee Construction in Angier, North Carolina, James returned to Fayetteville in the late 1950s and founded Autry Drywall. Through his business, he built a reputation as an honest and hardworking man who believed in doing every job right. He continued working until the age of 88. He also served as the general contractor for the construction of the new sanctuary at Arran Lake Baptist Church.

Outside of his work, James found joy in woodworking in his shop, tending his garden, and spending time boating and fishing. He loved the coast—first at Carolina Beach and later at Holden Beach—where he built a place for family gatherings. He was especially known for his downstairs fish fries and for making what many considered the best hush puppies around.

Faith and family were central to James's life. He joined Arran Lake Baptist Church in his early years, where he faithfully served as a deacon and in many other roles. Later, he attended Village Baptist Church. After moving to Georgia in 2015, he attended Grace Baptist Church. Upon returning to Fayetteville, he resumed attending Village Baptist Church as long as his health permitted. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who always made time for those he loved.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his first wife of 47 years, Helen D'Jinis Autry, and his second wife, Marie Rice Autry. He was the youngest of nine children and the last surviving member of his immediate family.

He is survived by his daughter, Connie Baxley (Rudolph); his son, Jimmy Autry (Teresa); his grandchildren, Brandon Baxley (Ginger), Barrett Baxley, Justin Autry, and Kayla Autry (Chris); and his great-grandchildren, Evie Baxley, Beck Baxley, Levi Autry, and Wyatt Norman, all of whom lovingly knew him as "Big Papa."

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2026, prior to a service at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home chapel at 12 noon. Burial will follow at Fayetteville Memorial Cemetery.

Funeral Arrangements by Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com.