James William Vandygriff, 60
February 7, 1966 – February 16, 2026, 60
James William Vandygriff, known as Jimmy to all who knew and loved him best, laid down the burdens of this old world and stepped into his eternal home on Monday, February 16, 2026, at his residence in Tippah County. While our hearts are heavy with loss, we rejoice in knowing that Heaven gained a faithful servant and a joyful soul.
Funeral services honoring Jimmy’s life will be held at 2 PM on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Chapman Church of Christ, with visitation from 11 AM until the time of service. Burial will follow in the church cemetery, with no graveside service.
Born February 7, 1966, at Tippah County Hospital, Jimmy was the beloved son of the late James “Buck” and Juanita Davis Vandygriff. A proud 1985 graduate of Ripley High School, he went on to dedicate nearly twenty years of faithful service to the receiving department at Ashley Furniture. Jimmy believed in showing up early, working hard, and treating people right. His coworkers quickly became like family, drawn to his dependable nature, steady work ethic, and friendly spirit.
A devoted Christian and faithful member of Chapman Church of Christ, Jimmy loved his church family dearly. He was happiest when the church doors were open—lifting his voice in song, studying God’s Word, and fellowshipping with those who shared his faith. His love for the Lord guided his life, and he lived in quiet obedience, always striving to do what was right.
Outside the walls of the church, Jimmy found his greatest joy in the woods beneath a starlit sky. Coon hunting wasn’t just a pastime—it was his passion. Many late nights were spent loading up with his brother Dale and Uncle Wayne, turning loose the dogs, listening for the chase, and savoring the simple fellowship that comes from shared adventure. Though he once enjoyed drag racing in his younger years and even tried his hand at fishing—despite Dale’s playful reminder that he wasn’t very good at it—nothing compared to the thrill of a good hunt and the stories told afterward.
Jimmy’s life was a quiet blessing to those around him. He had a servant’s heart, always willing to lend a hand without ever seeking recognition. If someone needed help, Jimmy was there. If someone needed encouragement, he offered it freely. His kindness was steady and sincere, and his presence brought comfort to many.
Though we will miss his smile, his laughter, and those long stories after a hunt, we rest in the blessed assurance that Jimmy is now enjoying the treasures laid up for him. He is reunited with those who have gone before, walking streets of gold and resting peacefully in the arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ.
Those left to cherish his memory include his sister, Alice Mask (Jimmy); his brother, Dale Vandygriff; his niece, Whitney Dixon (Logan); his great-nieces and nephews, Maddie, Ellie, Brayden, and Jaxon Dixon; two special children he considered his own nieces and nephews, Taryn Clark and Austin Clark; along with a large host of loving aunts, uncles, and a wide circle of dear friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by those loved ones who now welcome him home.
Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Jimmy’s family.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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Visitation
Wednesday
February 18, 2026
11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Chapman Church of Christ
250 CR 550
Ripley, MS 38663
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Funeral Service
Wednesday
February 18, 2026
2:00 PM
Chapman Church of Christ
250 CR 550
Ripley, MS 38663
