James William South, Jr., 77, of Mexico, passed away on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at his home.

Graveside services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, September 4, 2026 at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery near Higbee.

James was born on October 1, 1948 in Higbee, the son of James William South, Sr. and Martha (Cook) South. On June 17, 2023 he married Clarice Johnson in Mexico. James and Clarice attended church at Friendship Baptist Church.

James enjoyed making pot holders in his spare time and could often be found listening to St. Louis Cardinals baseball or cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs. He cherished the many friendships he made during his time at the St. Louis School for the Blind and remained deeply connected to the blind community throughout his life. He took great pride in keeping up with friends and others in the community, including his close friend, John Shufflebean. James valued these relationships and the sense of connection and friendship they brought to his life.

Survivors include his wife, Clarice South of Mexico; one daughter, Kathleen Michelle South of Bourbon, MO; three step-children, Devin Johnson, Jeffery Whitley and Malachi Whitley; two brothers, Clarence South of Troy and Harold South of Sedalia; an aunt, Natheline Frances Bohnert of Dittmer; one nephew, Tim Cunningham of Moberly; a father-in-law, Elmer Johnson; several cousins and friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Ivy Burns-South; three brothers, John Burns, Robert Burns and Charles Burns; two sisters, Mary Smith and Mary Lou Jenkins-Burns.