Underwood, Sr., James Junior

James Junior Underwood, Sr., 80 formerly of Riner, went to his heavenly home on Tuesday, August 16, 2022. He was born on May 9, 1942 to the late Charles & Mae Underwood. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 43 years, Audrey Lester Underwood; and brother, Melvin Underwood.

James was a hard-working man. He was born and raised on a farm in Pilot. After he married the love of his life, he worked for Christiansburg Garment Co. He attended New River Community College where he got a degree in business and later managed Dublin Garment until the business was sold. He then went to work for Lynchburg Foundry (Radford Pipe Shop) where he did various jobs including shift supervisor. While at the “pipe shop” he also did some farming, raising calves, chickens, and pigs. He worked for the Montgomery Schools and enjoyed driving the school bus to sporting events and at times, worked cleaning the schools. His favorite pastime was camping, spending time with his family, and working in his garden. He loved the Lord and he, along with his wife, served in many areas of the church. As he grew older and could no longer garden or drive, he would spend time listening to sermons and his favorite singing group The Gaither’s. Knowing Christ as his Savior, he would one day go home to be with Him, his wife, and all the others that have passed on before.

He is survived by his sons & daughters-in-law, James Underwood, Jr. (Donna) and Eddie Underwood (Angelia); daughters & son-in-law, Rebecca Underwood and Rhonda U. Ackerman (John); grandchildren, Lynda U. Dolan (Jimmy), Karen Underwood, Taylor Gordon (Trent), Morgan Huber (Ben), Braiden Underwood (Jessica), Brandon Ackerman (Mo), and Carter Ackerman; great-grandchildren, Briel Underwood, Piper Lytton, Brenleigh, Karleigh, and Denzly Dolan, Sawyer, Caroline, and Jolee Gordon, and Crosby and Charleigh Huber; sister & brother-in-law, Betty Ann Lester (Ronnie); in-laws, Claude & Janice Miles, Kenneth Kenley, Joyce Roop, and Dean & Iris Sowers; along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 19, 2022 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Tim Hight and Pastor Russell Gordon officiating. Interment will follow in the Duncan Cemetery. The family will receive friends from11 a.m. until 1 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Heritage Hall nurses and staff for their loving care for our dad during his time there.