James Avon Lovelace, 92, of Burnsville, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 28, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on August 17, 1934, in Burnsville, Mississippi, to Andrew and Hester (Lambert) Lovelace of Burnsville, MS.

James was a faithful member of the Berea church of Christ and was retired from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). He knew a wealth of information about genealogy, and even until his death he could tell you about kin folk you never knew you had. James knew everyone and everyone knew him. He was one of the first ones to visit when someone passed away.

James was drafted into the United States Army, but before entering the service he married the love of his life, Eloise Arnold Lovelace. They were blessed with 73 years of marriage and shared a lifetime of love, memories, and devotion to one another. James was especially proud of his children and grandchildren and all their accomplishments.

He is survived by his wife, Eloise Arnold Lovelace of Burnsville, MS; four sons, Anthony Lovelace of Burnsville, MS, James David Lovelace of Corinth, MS, Stevie Lovelace (Jennifer) of Burnsville, MS, and Jeffery Lovelace (Michelle) of Richmond, TX; one daughter, Melissa South (Jerry) of Burnsville, MS; eight grandchildren, Taylar Lovelace of Richmond, TX, Mallory Lovelace of Burnsville, MS, Michael Lovelace of Burnsville, MS, Cameron Lovelace of Richmond, TX, Ethan South of Burnsville, MS, Chandler Lovelace of Richmond, TX, Brycen South of Burnsville, MS, and Brayden South of Burnsville, MS. James will also be missed by a very special caregiver who has become like family, Katie Miles; as well as the best care team he could ask for, Demetris Watkins, Cindy Hodum, Shayla Rucker and Allison Miller. He is preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Hester Lovelace; and his siblings, Leon Barnes, Lois Fry, Paul Lovelace, and Andy “Buck” Lovelace.

Cutshall Funeral Home of Iuka is entrusted with arrangements. Visitation is scheduled from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Tuesday, September 1, at Berea church of Christ in Burnsville, MS, followed by the funeral service at 4:00 pm at the Berea church of Christ, officiated by Bro. Shawn Weaver. Interment will follow in Little Flock Cemetery. Pallbearers include Michael Lovelace, Ethan South, Chandler Lovelace, Brycen South, Brayden South and Chad Bowen. Memorials may be made to the Little Flock Cemetery Fund. An online guest book can be accessed at www.cutshallfuneralhome.com.