Preacher James Beaver, age 97, of Sawmill Hollow, went to his Heavenly Home on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at his home. A native of Yancey County, he was a son of the late Preston and Ester Briggs Beaver. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Nola Fox Beaver; son, Jehu Beaver; sister, Savanna Briggs, and a brother, Reece Beaver. Preacher Beaver received his calling to preach in 1950. He started the Shining Light Trio that later became known as the Shining Light Quartet. Preacher Beaver pastored 13 different churches and was truly devoted to each one. He loved taking his family camping, picnicking and swimming, and enjoyed fishing and taking care of his fish ponds.
Surviving is his daughter, Shirley Beaver of Marshall; sons: Ransom Beaver and wife, Patsy, of Valdese, Marlin Beaver of Saw Mill Hollow, and Phillip Beaver of Valdese; grandchildren: Kellie Melton (Ronnie), Shayne Beaver, Ashley Propst (Bradley), Greg Beaver (Tracy), Amanda Beaver and Bobbie Caldwell (Scottie) and great-grandchildren: Tanner, Aryn, Hunter, Abigail, Hunter and Coralynn. Several nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous friends also survive.
Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 30th at Victory Baptist Church on Squirrel Creek. Rev. Ethan Greene and Preacher Duaine Whittemore will officiate. The family will receive friends from 2 until 4 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, July 31st in the Beaver Family Cemetery on Sawmill Hollow Road.
Memorial donations may be made to Yancey Funeral Services at 378 Charlie Brown Road, Burnsville, NC 28714. To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.
