MSgt. James Richad Hartsell, U. S. Air Force Retired

MSgt James Richard Hartsell, Retired U. S. Air Force, a resident of Pass Christian went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Friday, January 8, 2010. Born September 4, 1933 in Charlotte, NC, he was the son of the late George and Emma Hartsell. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his wife Joyce Grayson Hartsell, a son James Edwanrd “Honey” Hartsell, his brothers, Robert Hartsell, Harris Hartsell and Reece Hartsell. James is survived by his wife, Dot Hartsell; daughter, Carol Nichols and her husband Loran of Pass Christian, MS; and his son, Rick Hartsell and his wife, Lori, of Paris, TN. Also, James had five grandchildren: Alex Hartsell, Lorie Cospelich, Josh Nichols, Chris Nichols and Scott Nichols and four great grandchildren: Raven McKenna, Jaxon Cospelich, Parker Nichols, and Alyssa Nichols. James’ military career spanned over 30 years, beginning with the 7th Army – field artillery battalion. He spent the first 2 years of his career with the allied forces occupying Germany after World War II. Upon returning home he transferred to the U.S. Air Force in early warning radar maintenance and finally as an instructor supervisor at Keesler Air Force Base where he retired in 1985. James dedicated his life to service to his Lord, his family and his country. He was a loyal dedicated servant of his Lord, and was a Deacon Emeritus and long time member of Fernwood Baptist Church. A service to celebrate the life of James will be held Monday, January 11, 2010, at 5:30 p.m. with a visitation one hour before service time at Fernwood Baptist Church. A reception to celebrate his life with friends and family will immediately follow the service in the church fellowship hall. James will be sent from Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, in Gulfport to Lowes Funeral Home in Charlotte, NC, for a second service conducted by Dr. J.R. Farrington of Harbor Baptist Church and a graveside service with military honors at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be to the Humane Society of South MS, 2615 25th Ave., Gulfport, MS 39501.