James “Junior” Jackson DeLoach, Jr., age 93, of Clanton, passed away at his home on December 24, 2018. He was born March 28, 1925, to the late James Jackson DeLoach, Sr. and the late Cora Lee Terral.

He was a farmer.

Junior had a profound love for his Savior, his family and gospel music. He devoted his life to Christ at a young age and served Him faithfully for more than 80 years. He not only faithfully loved and served Jesus Christ, but he was faithful to his beloved wife of 67 years, Bessie. Junior’s love for gospel music and song was the way he and Bessie spent their years together. They went from place to place singing for the Lord. Junior founded Chilton County’s very own Merchant Gospel Singing, which lasted for more than 30 years. He was loved by his family, his community and most of all, his Lord.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Bessie E. DeLoach of Clanton; daughter, Lisa (James) Mann of Sharpsburg, GA; granddaughter, Holly Mann of Sharpsburg, GA; brother, Arnold (Maureen) DeLoach of Clanton; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Cora DeLoach, and 8 brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will be Saturday, December 29, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. at Bethany Baptist Church with Rev. Aubrey Wallace and Rev. Derrick Deavers officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the church beginning at noon.

Final care and arrangements entrusted to the Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton. www.EllisonMemorialFuneralHome.com