James Esco (Sundance) Lacking, was born September 11, 1938, to the late James W. and Edna M. Lacking in Amite County, Mississippi. James was the firstborn of four children and the only son. James departed this life on December 25, 2022, at home. 

James was the father of four children.

James attended school in Indianola, Mississippi before his move to Dayton, Ohio in 1958. He received his G.E.D. in 1963. He attended the Ohio State Union Training Institute for Research and Education. James worked as a truck driver for B&B Furniture; a salesman for May & Co Furniture and a press operator for Standard Molding. James retired as Owner and Operator of Sundance Towing Service. In 1986, he confessed and accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior.

James was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Rutha Roach, and great-grandson, Chappy Gainer.

James leaves to cherish his memory: four children, Sandra Lacking, Miami, FL, Pamela Young, James R. (Vonetta) Lacking, Dayton, OH, and Roderick “Dion” (Dawnise) Lacking, Los Angeles, CA; sisters, Jean Reese and Clara "Baby" Lacking both of Dayton, OH; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. 

James was involved in numerous social and civic community organizations:

Past president of the United Paper Workers Local 1339

Past president of the Vantastic Van Club

Past business manager of the Springfield Van Club

Past member of the N.W. Priority Board

Past member of the American Woodman Camp #21

Master Mason (July 7, 1984)

Past master Mt. Moriah Lodge #50

Past master of Mt. Calvary Lodge #54

Past master of Master counsel

Past member of the Hezekiah chapter #4 Royal Arch Mason

Past member of the Arabia Temple #1 Shriner

Past member of the Knight Templar Mason

Past member of the Rainbow Consistory #2

Past member of the Dayton Trail Master Fortress #2

Past president Roberson Masonic Temple trustee board

Member of the Ohio Match Cover Collector Club

Member of the Long Beach International Match Cover Club

August 15, 1996 in Atlanta, Georgia, James accepted the highest degree in freemasonry, the United Supreme Council Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of the 33 for the United States of America and its territories.