James Harrell Tuten Jr.

James Harrell “Jimmy” Tuten Jr, 72 of Sanford passed away Thursday January 15, 2026.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Mr. Tuten was born in Cumberland Co, a son of the late James Harrell Tuten Sr and Mattie Maxine Jones Tuten.

Mr. Tuten is survived by his wife of fifty-two years, Debru Britt Tuten; daughter Amanda Tuten Roberts; grandchildren, Grayson Roberts and Rebecca Roberts; brother, Thomas William “Tommy” Tuten (Beth); one niece and one nephew.

Jimmy was born in 1953 at Womack Army Medical Center. As an Army brat, with his father serving in the 82nd Airborne based at Fort Bragg, he and his brother spent their childhood in Sanford, Fort Huachuca, Arizona, and Ethiopia, Africa. He graduated from Greenwood High School in Lemon Springs in 1971, where he played trumpet in the school band - a gift that sparked a lifelong love of music. He attended The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduated from Central Carolina Community College. He cheered on his UNC Tar Heels every chance he could.

Jimmy worked at Coty Inc. in Sanford for forty years before retiring into his proudest role, that of being “Pop”. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and every story, smile, or new adventure was brighter when they were by his side.

A man of deep compassion, Jimmy never met a stranger and greeted everyone with warmth, humor, and kindness. Service was central to who he was. He was a longtime member of the Sanford Kiwanis Club, serving as President from 2001-2002, and volunteered with the Christians United Outreach Center of Lee County throughout his retirement years, helping stock and maintain the food bank each month.

Jimmy loved all things automotive, especially his cherished 1969 Camaro Rally Sport, 1971 MGB, and 1965 Mustang Fastback. He could identify an aircraft by sound alone, and his curiosity for history, museums, aviation, and space never faded. He enjoyed raising Chow Chows, exploring North Carolina’s mountains and coast, sharing live music experiences, discovering hidden foodie gems, and taking his wife, daughter, and grandchildren on travel adventures. Amusement parks were a favorite.

Those who knew him will remember his big heart most of all. Jimmy was the first to stop and help a stranger on the roadside, the first to offer a hand or a smile, and the one who always made others feel welcome. His quick wit, contagious laugh, and joyful spirit brightened every room. Many days, you could find him in his garage - coffee in hand, music playing, tinkering and creating with quiet contentment.

Above all, Jimmy was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband, a proud father, a cherished brother and uncle, and an adoring grandfather who showed up with love, support, and a steadfast presence every single day. His life was rich with generosity, laughter, and love, and he leaves behind a legacy that will be treasured forever.

He will be missed beyond measure.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Christians United Outreach Center (CUOC) of Lee County, PO Box 2217, Sanford, NC 27331.