James Clinton Elder Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, stewmaster, sausage maker, and friend, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family on July 10, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on April 8, 1939, in Virginia, James dedicated his life to his family, and his work as a mechanic, primarily in the trucking industry.James was a respected and retired mechanic from Goodman Truck and Tractor. He also had a longstanding working relationship with Johnny Black at Buddy's Service Station, where he spent countless nights repairing trucks, showcasing his commitment and expertise. After retiring from Goodman he spent many years working as an attendant at Hillsman-Hix Funeral Home. A dedicated member of Rennie Memorial Presbyterian Church for many years, James was known for his unwavering faith and the love he shared with his community. James was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years Lucille Elder, granddaughter Dorrene Tilson, great-grandchild Rynlee Rose Newton, son James C. Elder Jr., and mother Vallie Covington. He is survived by his son Terry Elder (Vicky) of Keysville, brother David Elder (Jane) of FL, cousin Henry Mason (Debbie) of Amelia, daughters Rosa Woodel of Amelia, Pam Burris of Marion, VA, son Charles Hall of Amelia, his inlaws Doris Webb and Frankie Hastings, both of Amelia; niece Jamie Torrence (Brandon) and great niece Emma Torrence; his eleven grandchildren, Jennifer Dunford (Timmy), Kimberly Hall (Cliff), Ashley Hall (Travis), A.J. Newton, Tilsa Newton (Rob), Nathan Elder, Shannon Ruthkowski, Nicholas Elder, (Sherri), Billy Ray Woodel, Mya Elder; twenty-three great grandchildren, Tyler Hall (Madison & daughter Adalynn), Tristan Ruthkowski, Cody Ruthkowski (Lexi), Emma Dunford (Isaac), Landon Dunford, Xavier Reed, Journey Reyes-Hall, Jojo Reyes, Malik Hall, Isaiah Ruffin, Sayriah Ruffin, Kayiah Ruffin, T.J. Ruffin, Chasity Ruffin, Skyler Winstead, Lizzie Winstead, Dreyton Tilson, Alexis Newton, Leslie Newton, Aaron Elder, Lily Ruthkowski, Noah Ruffin and Liam Ruffin; and two great-great-grandchildren Waylon Ruthkowski and Delilah Ruthkowski. James will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Lucille Hastings Elder, in the church cemetery at Rennie Memorial Presbyterian Church. Public viewing will be held at Hillsman-Hix Funeral Home on July 18, 2025, from 6-8:00 PM, allowing friends and family to pay their respects. A Masonic Service will also take place on Friday at 6:00 p.m. during the visitation. The funeral service will follow on July 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM, also at Hillsman-Hix Funeral Home. After the service, James will be interred in the church cemetery at 12:00 PM. James Elder's legacy of kindness, hard work, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends.