James Roy Lane, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the age of 88.

He was born on March 3, 1937, in Brooks County, Georgia. James was the son of James Roy Lane Sr. and Allie Jarvis Lane. From an early age, he was known for his strong work ethic, kind heart, and steady, calm presence. He graduated from Brooks County High School and joined the US Navy where he worked as an Aviation Electronics Technician. During this time in the Navy, he was part of the Navy Hurricane Hunters flight crew as a radar technician.

After leaving the Navy, he graduated from college where he majored in psychology. Soon after, he began using the skills that he had learned in the Navy to work around the world for the RCA Corporation doing downrange telemetry for the NASA Missile Projects.

James continued his education, obtaining degrees in counseling and vocational education before becoming an instructor at Southwestern Technical College and later Valdosta Technical College. James was dedicated to his profession and the students that he helped educate and he was respected and admired by both.

James married Helen Slagle Lane on August 25, 1972. Together they shared 53 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, devotion, and forged an unwavering Christian partnership. He was a proud, loving and devoted father to Kelda Hearn (Gil) and Brett (Julie). He dearly loved his grandchildren Allie, Elise, Carlisle and William and nothing brought him any more joy than spending time with them.

James had many diverse hobbies. He was a ham radio operator and an avid photographer who developed his own pictures. However, the joy of his life was music and playing his guitar and banjo.

James was a quiet, reserved man. He will be remembered as an example of what a loving caring Christian should be. He loved his family and friends. His guidance helped others to better walk through this troubled world. We will miss his warm smile, generous spirit, quiet strength, and the wisdom he shared with those around him.

A funeral service will take place at First Baptist Church in Franklin, NC on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 2 PM, with visitation beginning at 1 PM. Graveside committal services with be held at Tellico Baptist Church Cemetery following the church services,

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of your choice in his memory.

Pallbearers will be Tony Slagle, Eric Young, Gavin Young, Lester Evans, Steve Houston, Tommy Smith, Jan Unger, Mark West and Gene Young.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.