Courtland – James Roger 'Jimmy" Byrum, 68, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family November 24, 2016. Jimmy was born May 15, 1948 in Gates County, NC and retired from International Paper in 2009 after 40 years of service. He attended Courtland Baptist Church and was a member of Forks of the River Hunt Club. Jimmy was predeceased by his father, Roger Spurgeon Byrum.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 26 years, Deborah Hornok Byrum, his mother, Helen L. Coggsdale (Jessie) of Bolivia, NC, two daughters, Tonya Lynette Byrum of Kill Devil Hills, NC and Amy Byrum Swindell (Otis) of Hertford, NC, one son, Adam James Byrum and his girlfriend Morgan Druyos of Courtland, two sisters, Rita B. Felton (Nelson) of Eure, NC and Robin B. Smith (David) of Bolivia, NC, two grandchildren, Ashley J. Davenport (William) and Abigail L. Riordan both of Moyock, NC and nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins and many friends. Jimmy was a father figure to many young people. He lived life to the fullest, loved everyone and was loved by many and always had a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone.

The funeral will be at 2PM Sunday, November 27, 2016 at Wright Funeral Home, Franklin with the Rev. Dr. Robert Carpenter officiating and Martin Carter delivering the eulogy. The burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery, Courtland. The family will receive friends Saturday from 6 to 8PM at Wright Funeral Home and suggests that memorial donations be made to the Courtland Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad or Courtland Baptist Church. www.wrightfuneralhome.org