Rev. James Temple

Sylacauga, Alabama - Reverend James Temple was born on October 15, 1949, to the late Berry Temple and Nancy Jenkins. At an early age, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and began a lifelong journey of faith, service, and devotion to God.

On Wednesday, June 10, 2026, Reverend Temple peacefully departed this earthly life at his home, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. His life was a testament to unwavering faith, humility, and service to others.

Reverend Temple attended Rust College in Holly Springs, Mississippi, where he met the love of his life, the late Shirley Temple. Their union was blessed through holy matrimony on October 4, 1972, and together they shared a loving marriage and raised five children. Their relationship was built upon faith, commitment, and a deep love for family.

For forty years, Reverend Temple faithfully worked at Avondale Mills as a Ball Warper before retiring. Throughout his life, he exemplified a strong work ethic and a servant’s heart. In addition to his professional career, he answered the call to ministry and dedicated himself to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

He served as Associate Pastor of St. John Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Eddie King and later pastored Unity Baptist Church in Alexander City, Alabama, for two years. He also shared the message of Christ through his radio broadcast, “As a Witness Unto Jesus.” Reverend Temple was a man after God’s own heart who never missed an opportunity to witness, encourage, or pray for someone in need.

For more than thirty years, Reverend Temple faithfully served as a member of Reaching the World Bible Church under the leadership of Reverend Henry and Ella Looney. There he was ordained into ministry and devoted countless hours teaching in the School of Bible. His passion for God’s Word and commitment to Christian education left a lasting impact on many lives.

Known throughout the community for his generosity and kindness, Reverend Temple could often be seen driving his loud white truck with lawnmowers in tow, preparing to cut grass for others free of charge. He found joy in helping people and believed that serving others was an expression of God’s love. Wherever he went, he was quick to acknowledge God’s goodness and share a word of encouragement.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Temple; his parents, Berry Temple and Nancy Jenkins; one sister, Cynthia Harris; and three nephews, Larry Jamison, Tommy Jamison, and Joseph Harris, Jr.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories two daughters, Shirley Temple Weaver (Thomas Weaver) of Sylacauga, Alabama, and Virginia Temple of Huntsville, Alabama; three sons, Marty Smith of Houston, Texas, Chancy Temple of Sylacauga, Alabama, and Issac Reed of Sylacauga, Alabama; one brother, Tommy Jamison of Columbus, Mississippi; two nieces, Geraldine White and Jacqueline Glorial of Lakewood, Washington; six nephews, Michael Harris of Lakewood, Washington, Curtis (Glendora) Jamison, Tyrone (Lorette) Jamison, and Bennie (Vickie) King, all of Columbus, Mississippi, Perry (Nicole) Jamison of Montgomery, Alabama, and Van (Keisha) Jamison of Los Angeles, California.

He also leaves behind a legacy of love through his cherished grandchildren: Daniel, Emmanuel, and Zayden Keebler, Jalen Corley, Carter Thedford, Ryder Temple, Brayden Milam, Torrey Smith, Lilyonna McCary, Daisy McCary, Jasmine Whetstone and Noah McCary; one great-grandson, Zayden; his devoted caregiver, Zoey Wilder; a special goddaughter, Elaine (Tommy) Whetstone; and a host of other relatives, church family members, and friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Though Reverend James Temple has departed from this earthly life, his legacy of faith, service, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His race has been run, his work is complete, and he now rests in the eternal presence of the Lord he faithfully served.

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