He was a member of Second Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a brother, Jimmy Hoarce Griffin; and one uncle, William "Dub" Hodges.
He is survived by a cousin, Claudia Withers of Brooklyn, AR; his guardian, Oledia Crook of Monticello; and several loving caregivers, Kim Hokes, Tearini Quinn, Terry Miller, Brandon Vincent, Xavier Woods and Gail Simmons.
Graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 19, 2016 at Lacey Cemetery with Rev. Ray Hearron officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 11:00 a.m. preceding the service at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home. Online guestbook at www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(4)
Ked Donham
Monticello, AR Monday, December 19, 2016 So sorry to hear about James. He was always such a joy to be around and always had a smile at all Special Olympics events. We will miss seeing him.Kay Worbington
Monticello, AR Sunday, December 18, 2016 I am sorry to hear James' passing. To me he was a joy to be around. Always so friendly and smiling. I remember when he worked at Piggly Wiggly. My husband and I lived across the street from his mom, brother and him around 45 years ago. He would tell how he and his brother lay brick with their dad. I heard they were some of the fastest brick layers as long as their dad was around. A ray of sunshine gone -- but to a better place! I know that having people around who cared as Oleta did made his life here on earth better!!Judy Hatley Smith
Jacksonville, AR Saturday, December 17, 2016 Many years ago James attended First Assembly of God with his precious mother. He never missed an opportunity to testify, saying simply, "I love Jesus". God bless you, Oledia for caring for "Mary's baby boy".Walter S Chapman
Monticello, AR Friday, December 16, 2016 Sorry to hear of James Royce's passing. He was a kind and gentle soul who loved everyone. R.I.P. James.