Marshall Prince James, Jr. ’52

Marshall Prince James, Jr. ’52, 80, of Maxton, N.C., died Aug. 14 at his home. Born May 5, 1930, in Hamlet, he was the only son of the late Marshall Prince James, Sr. and Mary Lois McRae James, formerly of Maxton. A graduate of Davidson and the U.S. Naval Officers Candidate School, he subsequently served as navigator of the USS Okanogan during the Korean War. While stationed in Charleston, S.C., he met Jane, his wife and faithful companion of 51 years. The two married June 20, 1959, in Centenary, S.C., and raised three daughters, Frances, Eliza, and Mary McRae. While engaged in the cotton business, farming, and real estate, James found ample time to enjoy his greatest loves of family, friends, and fellowship. A teller of tales, his keen intellect and sense of humor enriched many gatherings. James possessed an enormous recall and passion for all types of history. Other main interests included bird hunting, fishing, gardening, and fine craftsmanship. James was a lifetime member of the First Presbyterian Church of Maxton, where he served as deacon and elder. Other memberships included the Carolina Yacht Club of Charleston and the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors. He was a crackerjack shot, a font of knowledge, and he was generous and faithful to his friends. He is survived by his wife, Jane Leftwich Davis James, 301 N Florence St., Maxton, NC 28364; daughters, Frances James Willis (Jim), Eliza Patterson James, and Mary McRae James Stevenson (Mike); grandchildren, Thomas Marshall Willis, Walter McBryde Willis, Hallie Covington Willis, Alexander McRae Stevenson, and Jane McRae Stevenson; sisters, Sally James Bass and Mary Lois James Hilliard; and four nephews.