James Angus McSween

James Angus McSween, affectionately known as James by his loved ones and friends, passed away unexpectedly on August 27, 2024, in Ashford, Alabama. Born on September 17, 1940, in Dale County, Alabama, James was a man of exceptional character and an embodiment of resilience and generosity.

A proud graduate of Troy State College, James was a testament to the value of hard work and determination. He paid his way through college, which laid the foundation for his later academic achievement—a Master’s Degree from Auburn University. His pursuit of education was driven by a deep desire to provide for his family and to make a meaningful contribution to his community.

James honorably served his country in the United States Navy for four years, a period during which he demonstrated the courage and selflessness that would become the hallmarks of his life. Following his service, he embarked on a successful career which ultimately led to him achieving his goal of owning his own business, Alabama Industrial Distributors, before his well-deserved retirement.

James married the love of his life, Mary Ellen Bruner McSween, and they shared over 55 years of marriage, filled with love and mutual respect. Together, they raised their children, Amelia McDonald and Steve McSween, instilling in them the values of kindness, hard work, and devotion to family. James was a cherished grandfather to Patrick and Ashley McDonald, whose achievements and milestones were the joy of his life. He attended every event he possibly could, from softball to baseball games, always ready to cheer them on with pride and enthusiasm.

The great outdoors was James' sanctuary, and he found peace and happiness in nature. His love for deep sea fishing was well-known, especially the cherished trips he took with his daughter, Amelia. James was the solid rock of his family, always there to offer support, wisdom, and a helping hand to anyone in need. He was generous above and beyond, often going out of his way to help others.

James' faith was a guiding force in his life. He served as a deacon and Sunday School Teacher at First Baptist Church of Atlanta and Roswell Street Baptist Church, where he was a source of strength and inspiration. He was currently a member of Bethel Baptist Church. His selfless service and unwavering commitment to his faith community were a reflection of his belief in the power of love and compassion.

A celebration of James' life will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ricky Plummer officiating. Military honors will follow in Sunset Memorial Park Helicopter Pavilion. James will be laid to rest in Ashford City Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to gather at the funeral home before the services on Wednesday from 10-11 am and share memories.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ellen McSween, by his parents, Jackson D. and Edna Benton McSween, and by his brothers, Billy Frank McSween and Douglas McSween. James is survived by his daughter, Amelia McDonald; his son, Steve McSween (Joanna Eddins); by his grandchildren, Patrick and Ashley McDonald; his brothers, Fred McSween, Jack McSween, Derryl McSween, and Ronnie McSween; by his sisters, Janice Lee and Martha Wallace; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Courageous, generous, and selfless—these words capture the essence of James Angus McSween. To quote the words of Winston Churchill, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." James lived by this creed, and his legacy of giving and loving will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.