James Earl Bethel was born in Batesville, Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his parents Elijah "Jack" and Georgia Bethel, his beloved wife Annie Ruth Bethel, her children Deborah Ann and Van Lipscomb, and his brother Ernest Bethel. He has a surviving sister, Ernestine Davison. His memory will be forever cherished by his 3 children, Ernest Burgess (Elaine), Kimberly Felice Bethel, MD. Alma-Jean James ones and his grandchildren Andre (Ketina) and Omar Lipscomb: Wm Michael, Madison and Maya Murray; Evanie and DeAndre Burgess. He has a host of great grandchildren, a niece, nephews, cousins and friends. Special mention to Herman Williams, Kimberly Kristine Bethel, Keith & Alicia Martin and their children.

James was a kind, jovial man who was big on giving compliments that made you smile. He always had an opinion or wisdom to share on current events, politics. the economy, or how to succeed in life. He was an entrepreneur who retired from the City of Dayton where he was a supervisor in the Water Division. He was a hard worker, great provider, successful husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin and friend. He was reliable. He loved to fish and knew his way around the kitchen. He took pride in his appearance and loved everybody.