James Thomas Padgett, 82, of Evergreen, Alabama, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

 

Born on May 16, 1943, in Evergreen, Alabama, James was born, raised, and spent most of his life in the community he loved. In retirement, he enjoyed time along the Alabama River in Millers Ferry in Camden, Alabama, before returning to Evergreen in his later years. He lived a life centered on family, faith, and genuine connection with others. He was a devoted husband to his wife of nearly 65 years, Betty Padgett, and a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

 

James worked for many years with UPS, where he was known for his strong work ethic and reliability, as well as being the comedian of the group, always making his coworkers laugh. Outside of work, he loved spending most of his time with his family and was deeply family-oriented, with his life centered around those he loved. He also found joy in the simple things, spending time on his property along the Alabama River, fishing, working in his garden, playing his guitar, and building and sitting by a fire. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and took pride in the life he built for his family.

 

He was known for his warm spirit and uplifting presence. James never met a stranger and had a gift for conversation, always taking the time to speak with others, encourage them, and leave them better than he found them. His positive outlook on life and the love he showed to everyone around him will be remembered by all who knew him.

 

He is survived by his loving wife, Betty Padgett; his children, Nita Padgett Roberts (Mark), Debbie Padgett Burk (Bob), and Steve Padgett (Rachel); his grandchildren, Jessica Roberts Pierce (Danny), Whitley Roberts Harper (Thomas), Summer Burk Houston (Ryan), Connor Burk (Keri), Taylor Padgett, and Cole Padgett (Anna Grace); and his great-grandchildren, Natalie Pierce, Nathaniel Pierce, Noah Pierce, Reeves Harper, Brooklyn Harper, Evelyn Houston, Thomas Houston, Riley Houston, Issac Stacey, and Amos Stacey.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Claude Ray Padgett and Ruby Faye Padgett, and his brothers, Elbert Ray Padgett, Lougene Padgett, and Lyndon Alto Padgett.

 

James will be remembered for the love he gave so freely, the encouragement he offered so naturally, and the lasting impact he made on his family and community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, April 20th at 2:00 PM at Olive Branch Baptist Church in Owassa, Alabama. The family will accept flowers. Cope-Keahey directing.