James E. Wigginton

Smithville – James E. Wigginton, 87, died on Saturday, December 6, 2014, at his residence. Born on March 9, 1927, in Smithville, he was a son of the late Hubert Edward and Cleo Marie Dill Wigginton.

Wigginton attended Smithville High School. He served in the United States Army and was a World War II Veteran. He served in the 34th Infantry in Japan and received the Army Occupation Ribbon (Japan), the Victory Ribbon, and an Overseas Service Bar. After military service, he then worked for many years as a welder. On April 12, 1964, he married his wife Ethel Stauros. He was an active member of Pearce Chapel Church where he served as a Trustee, a Sunday school teacher, and a Board Member of the Cemetery Fund. A wonderful father and husband, he enjoyed family reunions and holiday gatherings. His favorite music was gospel music and some of his hobbies included working in his garden, making cabinets, and watching football and boxing.

Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Ethel Wigginton, Smithville; daughters, Sandra Kaufmann (Andrew), Arizona, Jenise Linkous (David), Georgia, Dee Varian (Craig), Smithville; sons, Jimmy Wigginton (Bobbie) Illinois, Joe Thompson, Smithville; sisters, Mildredge Kendrick, Smithville, Faye Pearson, Amory, Pam Wigginton, Smithville; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews; special friend, Mike New, Smithville.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Howard Sims; brother, Hubert Wigginton; sisters, Sue Hathcock, Barbara Branham and Marie Sanderson; mother in law, Ma Betty Schultz.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 AM, Tuesday, at E. E. Pickle Funeral Home, Smithville Chapel with Bro. Van Dale Hudson and Bro. Truman Carter officiating. Burial will follow in Pearce Chapel Cemetery, Smithville. Pallbearers will be Bill Tacker, Mike New, Darrell Stafford, James Taylor, Kenny Summerford, and Ken Williams.

Visitation will be from 5 – 7 PM, Monday at the Smithville Chapel.

Memorials may be given to Gideons International, PO Box 661, Amory, MS.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at eepicklefuneralhome.com.