Durham, James Wyatt
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.” — Psalm 37:23 (KJV) James Wyatt Durham, 89, of Blacksburg, Virginia, went to be with his Lord on July 15, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Born on May 13, 1937, in Pickens, South Carolina, James—known to many as Jim—lived a life centered on his faith, his family, and serving others. He was a man of integrity whose example was seen in the way he lived, worked, and cared for those around him.
Jim graduated from Pickens High School in 1956 before attending Clemson University, where he played trombone in the Clemson Tiger Marching Band and performed with the Jungleers Jazz Band. Music remained an important part of his life, and he continued to sing in church and community choirs for many years. He later graduated from Erskine College in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
Jim proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Army and continued to served six years in the United States Army Reserve.
He spent 37 years as an industrial engineer in the textile industry, working for Burlington Industries and New River Industries. Throughout his career, he was known for his leadership, dedication, and strong work ethic.
A lifelong Methodist, Jim’s faith guided every part of his life. He served the church as a lay speaker and as a lay delegate to the Virginia Annual Conference. He also shared his love of music by singing in church choirs, using his talents to worship and encourage others.
Jim believed in giving back to his community. He volunteered with prison ministry, Meals on Wheels, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, the Wesley Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, mission trips, and many other ministries and community organizations.
He also dedicated many years to civic leadership, serving as President of the Kiwanis Club, President of the Rotary Club of Radford, and President of the Radford Chamber of Commerce. At Radford University, he served in several leadership roles, including Chairman of the Athletic Association and as a member of the Athletic Association Advisory Council.
Jim’s greatest joy was the life he shared with his wife, Judy Durham. Together they built a home grounded in faith, love, and service. For 65 years they shared life’s adventures, traveling, camping, biking, serving on mission trips, volunteering together, and spending time with family. They encouraged one another in their faith and demonstrated the meaning of a Christ-centered marriage through the way they lived and loved.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wyatt E. Durham and Mary Darsey Durham; and by his beloved wife of 65 years, Judith Rebecca Durham.
Jim is survived by his son, David Durham (Melissa); his daughter, Mary Katherine Durham; his grandchildren, Jessica Durham and Ryan Durham (Rachael); his brothers, Joe Durham (Brenda) and David Durham (Jackie); and many other family members and friends.
Jim will be remembered for his faith, his love for his family, and his commitment to serving others. Whether leading in his church, volunteering in the community, singing in the choir, or spending time with those he loved, he lived his faith in quiet and meaningful ways. His life leaves a lasting example of service, generosity, and love.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of LewisGale Montgomery Hospital and Good Samaritan Hospice for the care and compassion they provided to Jim and his family during his final days.
A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at Blacksburg United Methodist Church on Sunday, July 19th, 2026, at 2:00 pm. Fellowship to follow. Service officiated by Rev. Brad Dulaney and Joe Durham .
The Durham family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford, VA www.mullinsfuneralhome.com.
