James Lanier Bush

James Lanier Bush, a beloved resident of Tallassee, Alabama, passed away peacefully Friday, December 20, 2024 at the age of 85. Preceded in death by his parents, Zebbie Anderson and Corrie Mann Bush, his five siblings, Martha Claire, Zebbie, Barbara, Helen and John, and his cherished wife of 57 years, Frelia. James leaves behind a legacy of love and service.

James is survived by his children, Jamie Bush (Kristi) and Melody Jones; his grandchildren, Lanier Hoyt (Taylor), Hannah Bear (Fred Bowman), Hannah Lee Hussey (Lee), Sarah Chambliss (Samuel), Trace Bush, Kevin Jones, Jill Service (Bobby), Morgan McIlwain (Galen), and Emma Bridgman; and his great-grandchildren, Anderson Hoyt, Teague Hoyt, Zebbie Hoyt, Bowman Bear, Emmet Bear, Lanier Bear, Copeland Service, Josie Jones, Tyler Ann Humphries, Tyler Hussey, Bryant Hussey and Ellie McIlwain. He is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews and his wife of 3 years, Gloria Bush.

James was a beacon of the Tallassee community, known for his unwavering dedication, kindness, and beautiful voice. Born and raised in Tallassee, he graduated from Tallassee High School in 1957. James then attended Howard College, now Samford University, for a year, but returned to Tallassee to help run the family grocery store during his father's illness. It was then he met his wife Frelia, and together they built a life filled with love and purpose.

James's passion for education led him back to college to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Auburn University in 1973, followed by a Master's Degree from Troy University in 1977. While at Auburn, he began teaching elementary music at Tallassee Elementary School part time. Upon graduating Auburn, he dedicated his career to the Tallassee City Schools. James began serving as the elementary music teacher, then moved to Tallassee High School as the choral director, and eventually became the Assistant Principal of THS in 1981. His double duty of music and administration never really ended as in 1993, he was chosen to become Principal of Tallassee Elementary School, where he served until his retirement in 2001. His love for music extended beyond the school system, as he served as Minister of Music at Second Street Baptist Church in Bessemer while at Howard, East Tallassee Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, Elam Baptist Church, and Bethlehem East Baptist Church for over 60 years. James shared joy throughout the entire community as a puppet master with Chester, a skilled balloon animal artist, and as a magician. He never forgot to sing a jingle or two or drop a famous Pappy joke. He was most proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

A true public servant, James was honored with the Chamber of Commerce's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022. He held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including President of the Chamber of Commerce, President of the Lion's Club, President of the Rotary Club, and a member of the Civitan Club. He was also a McCraney Cottle Board Member and McCraney Cottle Singer, a member of the First Baptist Church Baraca Quartet, the Four J's Quartet, and the River City Barber Shop Men's Ensemble. Additionally, he served as a judge for the Capital City Classic show choir competition for many years and was a long-time member of the Ministerial Alliance. His voice and spirit were integral to the community as he volunteered his time from initiating and organizing the Community Patriotic Program, serving as the PA spotter for THS Football for 15 years, helping lead the His Eyes Ministry, to guiding the Bethlehem East Baptist Church Glow Ministry. He led numerous hand bell groups and puppet ministries throughout the years.

James's legacy is one of generosity, joy and unwavering commitment to his community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family will receive friends for visitation at the Tallassee High School Auditorium on Saturday, January 11, 2025, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm and the memorial service will follow at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the THS Choir or the charity of your choice. Make checks payable to THS Choir and drop off at THS or mail to Tallassee High School, Attn: Debbie Rogers, 502 Barnett Blvd, Tallassee, AL 36078.

Online condolences may be posted at www.linvillememorial.com.

Linville Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory, Eclectic, Alabama