James "Jim" Madison Kizer

James “Jim” Madison Kizer, 85, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Carolina Inn, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born on September 27, 1939, in St. George, South Carolina, to the late Madison Quincy Kizer and Mary Westbury Kizer. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the U.S. Army and the Army National Guard. A graduate of Clemson University, Jim earned a degree in Civil Engineering and went on to become the Co-Owner of Moorman Kizer and Reitzel, Inc. He was a devoted member of Haymount United Methodist Church for over 50 years.

An accomplished engineer, Jim developed all types of land in both North and South Carolina during his career. He was known for his ability to plan complex projects and draw rich visuals to present them to the public, both of which earned him a prominent place among land developers in the region. In recognition of Jim’s 40 years of professional contributions to Fayetteville and Cumberland County, the Home Builders Association of Fayetteville presented him with the prestigious Pillar of the Industry Award in 2006.

Jim loved his community and generously volunteered his time and expertise to promote the city’s economic and cultural growth. Notably, he served as chairman of both BB&T’s Fayetteville Advisory Board and the Methodist College Foundation, participated extensively on Fayetteville’s Appearance Commission and Historic and Scenic Sites Committee, and was a board member of the Salvation Army and the Fayetteville Area Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to his professional and community presence, Jim was a lifelong singer dedicated to spreading joy through music. Many knew him for his powerful tenor voice in the Haymount choir, but his love of song extended far beyond the chancel. At Clemson, he was vice president of the glee club and a founding member of the barbershop quartet. He also served as vice president and then president of the local Civic Music Association. Jim’s love of music often merged with his love of gardening and landscaping, and he could regularly be found singing while working around the yard.

Above all, Jim enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, as well as cheering for the Clemson Tigers. He shared his positive attitude and sense of humor wherever he went, making the world a happier place for all who had the pleasure of knowing him. 

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Linda Lytch Kizer; son, James “Jimmy” Madison Kizer, Jr. and wife Marymelda; daughter, Mary Jac Kizer Kellam and husband John; sister, Mary Elizabeth “Beth” Hillman and husband Reggie; and grandchildren, James Samuel “Sam” Kizer, Mary Madison Kizer Futrell and husband Wessley, Mary Katherine Kellam, Caroline Kellam, and Anna Grace Kellam.

The family will receive friends on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. in the Commons Room at Haymount United Methodist Church. A service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. Burial will take place at Cross Creek Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Haymount United Methodist Church.

Online condolences may be left at http://www.jerniganwarren.com

Arrangements are being handled by Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, N.C. 28301.

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