MSG (Ret) James Christopher Exum

James Christopher Exum, son of James Wilson and Brenda Joyce (Scott) Exum, was born March 18, 1961 in Dothan, Alabama where he grew up and graduated from Rehobeth High School in 1979. While working at Red Lobster after graduating from high school, James met Nancy Elizabeth Morris. They were married on July 9, 1980 in Donalsonville, Georgia and shared over 30 years of marriage together. After he and Nancy were married, James entered into the United States Army and spent the next 25 years faithfully serving his country. He was awarded several awards and commendations; some of which include: Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Award), Army Commendation Medal (7th Award), Army Achievement Medal (3rd Award), Army Good Conduct Medal (8th Award), National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award), South West Asia Service Medal W/Bronze Service Star (3rd Award), Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Non Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (3rd Award), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (3rd Award), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, KU-LIB-MDL (Saudi Arabia), KU-LIB-MDL (Kuwait), Driver and Mechanics Badge with Driver – Tracked Vehicle Clasp, and Drill Sergeant Identification Badge. At the time of his retirement, he had attained the rank of Master Sergeant and retired in 2005. After retiring from the military, James began working as a consultant contractor for CTC on Fort Leonard Wood until ill health caused him to cease from working. In his spare time, James enjoyed being outdoors while fishing and he also liked spending time on his computer. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family. James passed away at 5:49 a.m., Thursday, December 23, 2010 in his home surrounded by his family. He will be sadly missed, by all those that knew and loved him. James leaves to cherish his memory his wife: Nancy of the home; his parents: James and Brenda Exum of Dothan, AL; four children: Christopher Michael Alphord (Heather) of Bryan, TX, April Renae Nauman (Jason) of Albuquerque, NM, Richard Wayne Alphord (Heather) of Crossett, AR and James Ross Exum (Jaime) of Dixon, MO; one brother: Chester Earl Exum (Tammy) of Dothan, AL; maternal grandmother: Clyde Hall of Dothan, AL; ten grandchildren: Ethan, Kelsey, Demetri, Laura, Larissa, Katherine, Savannah, Cassandra, Seth and Sade; several other relatives and friends. James was preceded in death by one brother: Curtis Anthony Exum and his paternal grandparents and maternal grandfather. Funeral services with military honors were held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 30, 2010 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory with Chaplain (MAJ) James Smith officiating. The songs “Go Rest High on that Mountain” by Vince Gill, “When I Get Where I’m Going” by Brad Paisley and “Forever Young” by Audra Mae and the Forest Rangers were played. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert.

MSG (Ret) James Christopher Exum

March 18, 1961 - December 23, 2010