James R. Varner was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose life was marked by family, love, and cherished memories. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Deborah Varner; his children, Michelle Graham, (Ben), Chris Varner, (Crystal), Stanley Beech, (Teneil), Kevin Gregg, (Lawanda); and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

His grandchildren include C. J. Beech, Erica Beech, Brittani Beech, Brody Beech, Lindsay Beech, Sophie Beech, Creed Varner, Colby Varner, Caitlyn McCussion, (Brandon), Isabella Walters, (Rhett), Colton Graham, (Laiklyn), Ace Graham, Veda Graham, Michael Gregg, (Shana), and Gerrit Gregg, (Brianna).

He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer Varner; his mother, Gertie Lou Varner Lewis; his stepfather, Lamar Lewis; his siblings, Joe Varner, Gary Varner, Robert Varner, and John Scott Lewis; his sons, Clay Beech and Keith Gregg; and his great-grandchild, Eli Beech.

He was also blessed with many great-grandchildren, including Clay Gregg, Kayleigh Gregg, Caroline Walters ("Sugar Jaws"), Easton King, Blakely Newell, Beckett McCustion, Carson McCustion, Riley Varner, Bentley Varner, Carly Joe Beech, Cayden Beech, Camdyn Beech, Nevaeh Beech; sister, Clara Campbell (John).

Though he is no longer with us, his love for his family and the memories he created will live on through the generations. His family will forever cherish the time they shared with him and the legacy of love he leaves behind.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel, Mississippi, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM at the same location, with burial at Good Hope Cemetery, Stringer, MS. Bro. Keith Ulmer will officiate. Arrangements are under the care of Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel, MS.

PALLBEARERS

Rhett Waters • Colton Graham • Ace Graham • Creed Varner • Colby Varner • Brody Beech

HONORARY PALLBEARERS

Ben Graham • Hunter Doggette • Marc Kelley • Jerry Kelley

Brandon McCustion

“A host of nieces and nephews, family, and friends will forever hold his memory dear.”