James Nabors

James “Diddy” Nabors, age 84, of Long Beach, entered into the gates of heaven’s glory on Monday, August 24, 2020. Although he will be missed by his loving family, they are relieved to know that he will no longer feel pain.

James was born September 30, 1935, in Ethel, MS, the son of the late Alvin and Eula Beech Nabors. He was also preceded in death by a son, Jason, and a brother, Wayne.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Charlotte, of Long Beach; his sons, Jimmy and Jeff Nabors, both of Pass Christian; his two grandchildren, Blake (Brina) Nabors, of Long Beach, and Annie Nabors, of Pass Christian; his three great-grandchildren, Jesie, Julianne, and Brady Nabors; his sister, Betty Nabors Johnson, of Gulfport; his sister-in-law, Dot Nabors, of Knoxville, TN; his nephew, Mark Johnson, of Petal; and his niece, Angela Rouse, of Knoxville, TN.

When James was younger, his father took a job at the shipyards in Pascagoula, during WWII. He later moved his family to join him on the MS Gulf Coast where opportunities were more plentiful. James took to life on the Gulf Coast, riding motorcycles, fishing, and even enjoyed shrimping in the gulf waters. Like so many young men at the time, he was drafted into the Army by “Uncle Sam”. He served at Fort Chafee, AR, and in Germany. Several years later he was hired as a civil servant in the construction equipment department on the Seabee base in Gulfport. He worked in this position during the Vietnam War and Desert Storm.

James was known and loved for his delicious food. He could cook and make a roast beef po-boy that rivaled Martin Brothers in New Orleans; he cooked a brisket that was second to none. He was always a member of the food committee at his church. He perfected many more dishes during his lifetime, and his sons and grandson are carrying on his expertise. Pop’s greatest joy was cooking the best grilled steak dinner for the family that he loved so much, and in return they loved him joyfully. He lived a full life serving his Lord, loving and caring for his family, and serving his country.

Special thanks are given to all of the family and friends that have loved and helped during James’ extended illness. The family is especially grateful to the staff of Kare-In-Home Health and Hospice for the constant support and care that they provided.

Visitation will be on Saturday, August 29, 2020, from 10 – 11 am at the Covenant of Peace Church, 13600 John Clark Road, Gulfport. The funeral service will be at 11 am in the church.  Interment will be in Long Beach City Cemetery.

The RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, Long Beach, is serving the family and online tributes may be offered at www.riemannfamily.com