James Robert Kirkley, Jr. (Jim), 81, of Cassatt, SC, passed away on June 25, 2026 at Karesh Long Term Care with his daughter by his side.

Jim will be lovingly remembered by wife Phyllis Kirkley of Gastonia, NC; daughter Dina Harkey, her husband Troy, and their dog Rumour (who was Jim’s favorite visitor) of Charlotte, NC. His sister Ellen Williams of Camden, SC. Jim is also survived by two grandchildren, Benjamin Harkey (wife Erika) of Mount Holly, NC and Matthew Harkey (wife Pamela) of Durham, NC.

He was preceded in death by parents James Robert Kirkley Sr. and Katherine Kirkley, brother Freddie Kirkley, and faithful hunting companion Dink.

Jim enjoyed the outdoors camping, hunting and fishing. He was a member of 97 Hunt Club and The Sportsman’s Hunting Club.  Jim will be remembered for his joking nature, love of animals, stubbornness, and how much he loved his family and friends. Some of his favorite travel destinations include Canada and New Hampshire. Despite living among legions of Tigers and Gamecocks, Jim remained a faithful fan of his North Carolina Tar Heels.

Jim enjoyed a 30-year career with Raymond Services, starting in the shop and advancing to Manager of the Charlotte, NC Office. 

The family offers special thanks to the nurses, CNAs, and staff at Karesh Long Term Care in Camden, SC as well as Amedisys Hospice of Columbia, SC. We are forever grateful for your care and compassion.

A small memorial will be held with immediate family.  

Donations in Jim’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://www.alz.org.