James Goolsby was born Feb. 17, 1938 in Newton County, to Rose Bub Goolsby and Newt Cole. Mr. Goolsby grew up in Newton County. He was a graduate of the class of 1958 at R.L. Cousins High School. He was employed at Hercules for 27 years and received numerous awards for his services. Upon his retiring, he was a valued employee at Young Funeral Home for the past 18 years.

Mr. Goolsby professed his faith at an early age and joined Macedonia Baptist Church of Covington. He was an active and faithful member for many years serving as chairman of the deacon board to this present time. He was a very caring and kind heart person with a loving personality, who never met a stranger. He was a pillar of the community and the church, always greeting everyone with a smile. Mr. Goolsby was truly a servant; he found pleasure in cooking for family and friends.

He is the proud father of two sons and one daughter. His brother Larry Joe Goolsby preceded him in death. Mr. Goolsby departed this earthly life on Nov. 10.

Surviving are his devoted sons Vonzell Lanier Goolsby of Jonesboro and Craig and Tina Goolsby of College Park; daughter Delores Babb of Covington; grandsons Ahmad and Nijah Goolsby and Javille Babb; great grandson Taijae Babb; a devoted and loving former wife Ms. Annie and three godchildren Tiffany, Cooley and Keanna; two sisters Janice Davis of Covington; James and Juanita Nolley of Valdosta; special nephews Tavaria Davis and Melvin Cole; two special cousins Beactrice Lackey Lawrence and Berta Lee Marks; two devoted cousins Larry and Sherry Ashby, Hezekiah and Belinda Benton Jr.; two lifetime friends Henry Clark and Robert Clark, and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins and other loving relatives and dear friends.

Funeral services for Deacon James Goolsby were held Nov. 5, at noon at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, Covington. Pastor Tyrone D. Lane, eulogist. Assisted by others. Interment followed at Macedonia Cemetery.