Lawton James Obituary

Mr. Lawton James Jr., 88, beloved husband of the late Joyce Pence James, entered in to the presence of the Lord on Friday evening, February 7, 2025 at Doctors Hospital in Augusta, surrounded by family.

A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, Mr. James, known far and wide as Papa, was a native of Augusta, and the first- born son of Lawton and Marie James. After graduating from Harlem High School in Augusta, he joined the Air National Guard and then transitioned into active duty in the Air Force, first as a mechanic, crew chief then as a flight engineer. Later he served as a flight engineer for Saudi Air and Japan Air. 

Early in Lawton’s career, he took a job in Marietta, Georgia where he met his wife that began a 63-year marriage. His career afforded them travel to wonderful destinations throughout the world, including Saudia Arabia where the couple resided for 12 years. A loving husband, he took care of his wife throughout her long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Papa was a member of the VFW and regularly attended Stevens Creek Church. 

He is survived by his children, Vicki Johnson (Tim), Anita Blackmon and Lana Loveland (Eric), his grandchildren, Landon, Trent (Mallory), Emily, Hannah (Ryan), Olivia, Ehrin (Caleb), Hilary and Mikaela (Ben) as well as numerous great grandchildren. He is also survived by sister-in-law, Ollie James, as well as sister-in-law and brother-in-law Gail and Ray Crews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawton and Marie James and a brother, Eddie James.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Stevens Creek Church, 600 Stevens Creek Rd, Augusta, GA.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Stevens Creek Church Ministries or your favorite veterans’ charity.