TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF ARTHUR WHITEFORD JAMES OF SUMTER COUNTY AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS LARGE AND LOVING FAMILY AND HIS MANY FRIENDS.

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were saddened to learn of the death of Arthur Whiteford James at the age of ninety-six on Tuesday, April 28, 2015; and

Whereas, born in Rembert, he was a son of Charles Sebastian and Leila Thompson James and was educated in the public schools of Sumter County; and

Whereas, he served his country with distinction in the United States Army during World War II, and when he returned to civilian life, Mr. James worked with farm-related commodities and retired as the owner and operator of the Farmers Gin Company in Dalzell; and

Whereas, together with his beloved wife, the late Mary Esther Dinkins James, he reared three fine sons: Arthur Whiteford "Whit" James, Jr.; Robert Hastings James; and William Hamilton James, all of Sumter. Their children blessed them with eight adoring grandchildren: Lisa James Hayes, Fran James Blakeney, Hamilton James Hollis, Ellen James Peek, Will James, Robert James, Jonathan Caneda, and Leslie Caneda. He enjoyed the love of four great-grandchildren: Marywhit Blakeney, John Hayes, Mac Blakeney, and McKinley Hollis; and

Whereas, Mr. James was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church in Sumter and was an associate member of the French Huguenot Church in Charleston; and

Whereas, dedicated to his community, he was a member of Farm Bureau, the American Legion, and the South Carolina Huguenot Society; and

Whereas, as one of the founders of Thomas Sumter Academy, Mr. James served for a number of years on its board; and

Whereas, a generous supporter of many community projects, he helped to coach Little League ball teams for a number of years and also helped with the American Legion ball teams; and

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are grateful for the life and legacy of Arthur James and for the example of concern and kindness he set for all who knew him. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of Arthur Whiteford James of Sumter County and extend their deepest sympathy to his large and loving family and his many friends.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to the family of Arthur Whiteford James.