James "Boy" Edwin Abbott

James "Boy" Edwin Abbott, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on October 29, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on September 10, 1935, in Little Rock, Arkansas, he made a significant impact on those who were fortunate enough to know.

James achieved his GED, reflecting his commitment to education and self-improvement. He then went on to have a fulfilling career at Hoerner Waldorf-Champion International Paper Company, ultimately becoming a supervisor specializing in container shipment. His work ethic and dedication were evident throughout his professional journey.

James was a man of many interests and talents. He loved to sing and often expressed a desire to "sing with the angels”. This passion for music was just one aspect of his vibrant personality. He was known for his generosity and would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. His love for his family was boundless, and he cherished each moment spent with them and his two furry companions, his fur babies, who were considered family. A true people-person, James never met a stranger; he had the remarkable ability to connect with everyone he encountered, bringing joy and laughter to their lives with his jokes and infectious laughter.

A gardener at heart, James, nurtured not only plants but also the relationships in his life. He took great pride in his family, including his children: Debbie (James) Ashton, Tim Abbott, Allen Abbott, Gay Sinha, and Fay Perry. He was a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren and countless great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. James also shared a strong bond with his sister, Jeanette Williams.

While he enjoyed a lifetime of rich experiences, James also faced the profound loss of several loved ones. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 60 years, Virginia Ann Abbott, whose love and companionship he cherished deeply. He is also preceded in death by his parents, Isaac Woodrow Abbott and Rosa Carnelia Abbott-Mullings; his sons, Bobby and Jebby Abbott; his grandchildren, Allen Edmonds and Mark Howell; his brothers, Billy Abbott, Ray Abbott, and Danny Mullings; his sisters, Patsy Hobby, Rosemary Moak, and Fay Harris; as well as his stepfather, Wilson Mullings.

James's life was punctuated by pride in his accomplishments, particularly his long and happy marriage as well as his esteemed roles as a mason and a Shriner—a testament to his commitment to community service and philanthropy and his membership at Indian Springs Baptist Church in Bryant, AR.

In honor and celebration of James's extraordinary life, a visitation will take place on Monday, November 4, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas. A funeral service will follow on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, starting at 11:00 AM, with burial at Butler Cemetery in Alexander, Arkansas, at 12:30 PM on the same day.

The family would like to express their sincere and heartfelt gratitude to James's caregiver, Teresa Cash, for her kind and compassionate care of James while he battled his many health challenges.

In lieu of, or in addition to flowers, memorials may be made in James's name to Butler Cemetery, to help keep James, and many others, final resting places beautiful for visiting loved ones.

The memory of James "Boy" Edwin Abbott will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and unwavering love, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and community spirit that will inspire future generations.