James A. "Jim" Fairley

Mr. James A. "Jim" Fairley, age 74, passed away Wednesday, August 3, 2016, in Gulfport. Born in Clarkesdale, MS on May 20th, 1942, he was one of three boys born to the late Paul and Frances Fairley. He lived in Memphis, TN until 1970 and then relocated to Biloxi. He received his B.S. Degree in Civil Engineering from Christian Brothers University in Memphis, TN 1970. Jim was president of Fairley Engineering Inc. in Biloxi from 1971 till 1987. During that time he was a registered engineer and surveyor in seven states. In 1990 till 2010 he was a Project Management Officer for the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. He was recognized as one of the top young engineers in the country and as the Mississippi Young Engineer of the year in 1976. Jim was a life member of the Kiwanis Club in Biloxi for “44 years”. He was an active member in the First Presbyterian Church in Gulfport where he served as a Deacon. Jim was an avid golfer, but one of his favorite past-times was creating model airplanes to donate to the VA. Spending time investing in his local community and going on church missions was a constant joy for him. Jim was preceded in death by his brother, Lowell Fairley. Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Lynda M. Fairley; his daughters Leigh Ann (Jeff) Wise, and Amanda (Richard) Conine; grandchildren, Eric Wise, Amber Yon, and Anna and Ethan Conine all of Biloxi; and his brother Paul V. Fairley Jr. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate contributions to the First Presbyterian Gulfport's Mission's Fund, 10885 O'Neal Road, Gulfport, MS 39503. Jim was very passionate about church missions. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, August 6, 2016, at 3:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Gulfport located on O’Neal Road and Hwy. 605. Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, 15th St. in Gulfport is in charge of services.