James Henry Stanford

James H. “Jimmy” Stanford, 81, of the Maple Grove community in Jackson, Tennessee, passed away on June 19, 2025.

Born and raised in Jackson, Jimmy devoted his life to farming and his community. He was the proud owner and operator of R & J Feed and Farm Supply for 43 years and the operator of Circle S Farm. A dedicated row crop and cattle farmer, he was a passionate advocate for agriculture throughout his adult life. This year, he proudly planted his 69th crop — a testament to his unwavering commitment to the land. Jimmy farmed alongside his father, his son-in-law, and later his grandson, building a legacy deeply rooted in family and hard work.

A 1961 graduate of Beech Bluff High School, Jimmy attended UT Martin and later served for many years as president of the Madison County Farm Bureau. He was a devoted member and deacon of East Union Baptist Church for over 50 years and a longtime member of the East Union Ruritan Club, where he enjoyed fellowship and service with his neighbors.

Jimmy is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Stanford; his daughter, Ginger Kemp, and her husband, Brian; his pride and joy, grandson Will Kemp; and his sister-in-law, Terry Coleman, who lived with Jimmy and Debbie and was a special part of his daily life. He was preceded in death by his parents, J.D. and Bessie Ruth Stanford, and by his first wife, Linda Stanford, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage.

A visitation with the family will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at East Union Baptist Church, 2244 Beech Bluff Road, Jackson, TN. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m., with burial to take place at Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

Jimmy Stanford’s life was one of faith, perseverance, and devotion — to his family, his farm, and his community. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to East Union Baptist Church or Tennessee Ag in the Classroom, in honor of Jimmy’s lifelong dedication to faith and farming.