James Fox

April 7, 1959 - April 3, 2022

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Taylors First Baptist Church

200 West Main Street

Taylors, SC 29687

Saturday 4/9, 2:00 pm

There will be no visitation prior to the service.

James William Fox, resident of Travelers Rest, SC, passed away on April, 3rd 2022 at the age of 62. He was the husband of Melissa Fox. They shared nearly 42 years of marriage.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Chad (Kasi) and Katie; grandchildren, Mac, Cal, Parks, and Eva; and his siblings, Steve Fox and Marsha Robertson. James loved his family dearly.

He was born in Hiawassee GA to Billy and Louise Fox and spent his childhood in Gaffney, SC. He graduated in 1981 from Furman University in Greenville SC.

Music was his life’s passion.

James had an esteemed career as a band director. One of his greatest accomplishments was developing the Blue Ridge High School Corps of Cadets to a championship marching band. Blue Ridge won three state championships under his leadership. His students would tell you he commanded excellence.

He also served as a music minister for over 40 years at several churches in Upstate South Carolina; most recently at Mountain Hill Community Church in Landrum, SC.

James is loved by so many and the impact he made on family, friends, co-workers, and his students is immeasurable.

He will be remembered for his friendly personality, selflessness, and ability to share countless laughs.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all that knew him.

A memorial service celebrating James’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 9, 2022 at Taylors First Baptist Church, 200 W. Main St., Taylors, SC 29687. There will be no public visitation prior to the memorial service, but please join the family to show your love and support.

Melissa, Chad, and Katie invite you to leave uplifting memories of James by clicking on the button labeled “Leave A Message, Share A Memory” below. A physical guestbook will also be available to sign at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Northwest Chapel beginning Wednesday, April 6, 2022 for those unable to attend the service on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, the Fox family kindly requests family and friends send memorial donations to the Hospice and Palliative Care Foundation, P.O. Box 151, Drayton, SC 29333, www.hpcfoundation.org, and Pickens County Meal on Wheels, 349 Edgemont Ave., Liberty, SC 29657, pcmow.org.

Taylors First Baptist Church

200 West Main Street

Taylors, SC 29687

Map

Saturday 4/9, 2:00 pm

There will be no visitation prior to the service.

James William Fox, resident of Travelers Rest, SC, passed away on April, 3rd 2022 at the age of 62. He was the husband of Melissa Fox. They shared nearly 42 years of marriage. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Chad (Kasi) and Katie; grandchildren, Mac, Cal, Parks, and Eva; andContinue Reading

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My heartfelt sympathy to Melissa, Chad and Katie for your loss of James and your Dad. So many memories of Choir practice at Locust Hill and beautiful memories of sharing the music with the church. I always look around to see if I'll spot the two of you in Walmart. That was the last time I had seen you both. That was a joy! I'll never forget how kind you both were to me. Memories I will always cherish. Thank you for being a part of my life and sharing in God's love and music.

Melissa and family, I was saddened to learn of James’ death this morning. I happened to think of him and had planned to message him today to check on him. When I couldn’t find his FB page, I turned to Google and found his obituary. I have some fond memories of times spent with him. He will be missed. I am praying for all of you. Blessings and peace, Parker Hulsey “Alvin”

To the loved ones of Mr. Fox, I will always remember Mr. Fox as a kind and patient man (you have to be to work with the middle school band students I knew!), and one who never fell short to share a joke or try to brighten up another’s day. I remember him teaching us the electric slide on a random school testing day and just how much fun he loved to have and how he loved God and loved life. I will always be grateful to him for teaching me to play the clarinet. Admittedly, it took me a while to get there, as I was adamant about playing the saxophone, but it turned out to be the perfect fit, and one that I continued to play throughout high school and in my church’s orchestra. That is truly a gift that I will never be able to repay Mr. Fox for. Please know that I am praying to the God of all comfort for His peace to cover you all and your families as you walk in this deep valley and as you remember the life and legacy of a truly wonderful man. In Christ, Jessica Moon

I have such great memories of Mr Fox from League Middle and Wade Hampton High. He was a great teacher and encourager. I know he had an impact on so many students. Thank you for the memories.

I had Mr. Fox as a sub when I went to Blue Ridge Middle He was so nice and full of light and had such a kind smile. Condolences to the family ❤️

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I'm so sorry to hear of this loss. We taught together briefly years ago at Greenville High School. He was always a wonderful person and I know he will be missed by many who knew him. Coach Smith Danielson

Prayers for the family,James will be missed.

Melissa and family, you all are in our prayers as you grieve the loss of James. We thought the world of him. Kathy will miss him teasing her about cutting wood with him. We will continue to pray for you all. God bless you in the future as you think on the fond memories of his life.

We both loved James dearly. It was a pleasure to sing under his leadership. James, Lee and I shared a love for the Waffle House. We miss him so much. We are praying for Malissa and the whole family.

Chad, Katie and Melissa, So sorry for this tremendous loss. James leaves this world a better place because he touched so many lives in a very positive way with his many gifts, talents and personality. So many fond memories that will last forever, such as hearing the band strike up “We Are The Champion”! You will always be a very special and loved family. Fond Memories and Love, Kenneth Southerlin

I can hear James walking through the pearly gates shouting "hooty hoo"!! I'll never forget all the times spent together cutting grass with you. Thanks for showing us all how we could have fun & still be cool while being a christian. Love you Melissa, Chad & Katie.

My heart aches for Melissa, Chad and Katie. As a band board member from 1999-2002, I was there participating in the celebration for James' first State Championship. He was Fox to me; therefore, he informed me I was Springman to him. He told me when my daughter, Korey, first began concert band in 6th grade that she rolled her eyes and he thought "This ain't gonna work"! What a great sense of humor and chuckle he had. Fox guided and led Korey to attain the John Philip Sousa award and to become co-band captain her Senior year. He was more than a band instructor; he was an active contributor in the community, He had our children participate at churches, local events, parades, graduations, and many other events that were meaningful to our community, and an inspiration to our children. He was always contributing music to these important events. He gave so much. Fox championed so many. What a life he led. And what a leader he was! God blessed us all to have had James Fox touch our lives. Love and prayers to the family and community. Robin Springman
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In memory of James Fox, Candi Hart lit a candle

James was the minister of music and one of the youth leaders when I was a teenager attending Berea Heights Baptist Church in the 80’s. James was kind and could make you laugh every time you talked with him. What a loss to this world, and a gain to heaven! My sincere condolences. I know he is dancing at the throne of our Lord this very second. God Speed, James.

When we’d see each other at WHHS we always laughed. It was a joy to be his colleague and an honor to be his “Doc” at band camp. He left a positive mark on everyone’s life. Praying for your family.

Melissa, it deeply saddens me to learn about James. Even though we haven’t seen each other or communicated in a long time, you are often in my thoughts. Praying for God to give you and your family peace and comfort during this time and in the days to come. Much love. Tammy Boone Gilstrap

We are so saddened to learn of your loss. We will always remember James for his humor, his love of life and church, and the way that he served the Lord through music. When he sang, he was singing to glorify the Lord. He will be missed here, but not gone! Thinking of you all.

Dear Melissa and children, we are truly grieving with you over the untimely death of our beloved friend, James Fox. We know he no longer suffers and we are so thankful. He has left such a legacy in numerous hearts and we will never forget him. I worked with him atWHHS, he was our minister of music at Locust Hill Church and we had a granddaughter in Blue Ridge Marching band. He was a mentor to a grandson for years and has had such an impact on his life. James demanded excellence in his music. There will never be another James Fox. We will meet him one day with our Lord. Our love And prayers to the family. May Our Lord comfort and strengthen you in the days to come. Love, Bob and Brenda Trentham And Family Psalm 116:15

So sorry about the passing of James. I always enjoyed anytime I got to spend with him. From reading on a couple platforms, it appears James had an impact on some peoples lives, and probably more than who are able or willing to share during this time! Thinking of this family during this difficult time.

While James was called home years before we expected, God wasn't at all surprised. Our prayer is that you have more laughter than tears as you remember your lives together and that you have peace during the coming weeks and months. As so many have said, James spread joy and inspiration wherever he went. It was an honor to know him.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I was sorry to learn of James' death. Please be assured of my prayers.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family. He will most definitely be missed. My best memories are band camp, competitions, beauty pageant. I was a band mom who was always there helping out at all things band when both my children were in band. He was a good man, funny sometimes but he ran a tight ship when it came to his band students.

Melissa, Chad, and Katie we are so very sorry for your loss. We are praying God’s peace for all of you and his beloved grandchildren, siblings and many friends.

Sending prayers for the family and friends of Mr. Fox.

Some people just have a spirit that exudes kindness and love. James Fox had a smile and kind heart that would just warm a room. Always kind, encouraging to all, and we won’t know all the lives he touched until we get to heaven. Many prayers to the family, and thanking God you all have memories no one can take away. Thank God James is at peace now and no suffering. Praising the Lord you all will meet again.

What a wonderful privilege for me to have known James during my years of working in the school district. He was always supportive of me and blessed me with Chad & Katie at MVE.My heartfelt condolences to Melissa, Chad & Katie and there families

I'll never forget the trip to White Water Falls...thank you for being such a good leader, mentor, educator, and friend. You sure are gonna be missed! RIP, Sir.

Prayers for the family!

Dear Family, I am so sorry for your loss. All I had to do like so many was ask James for help/assistance and he would respond back with a smile saying "Not a problem...I will hook you up!"...he had the contacts!! I of course would thank him each time but hope he knew how much I appreciated all his help. I will miss hearing his BEAUTIFUL voice singing songs of PRAISE...he was a SPECIAL man. James we MISS you and know you are among the HEAVENLY CHOIR singing PRAISES to the FATHER...with tears of sadness & happiness. Cindy Appleton

In memory of James Fox, Heidi Schachtschneider lit a candle

James was such a huge influence on me growing up at Locust Hill. He made our youth group and youth choir so much fun and was the reason so many of us wanted to be involved in church at that age. I have nothing but wonderful memories of him throughout my life and am so glad to have known him. He is a true original and will be greatly missed by so many.

To Marcia, Owen, and and all of James' family, I extend sincere sympathy in the passing of James. It was always a pleasure to have student teachers from North Greenville University placed with James Fox. The students learned so much in how to control the classroom, and how to reach each and all of the different individuals in the band classroom. James also excelled as a church musician. He will be missed. Marianne Holland, Professor of Music Ed., NGU

Mr Fox was truly one of a kind. His getting me to join band and then the Corps of Cadets changed me and my life for the better. I will always cherish my memories from those times. You will be sorely missed, Fox.

Melissa, I am so very sorry! Please know that you and your precious family are in my thoughts and prayers. I love you lots.

In memory of James Fox, Ruth Rinehart lit a candle

In memory of James Fox, Carson Smith lit a candle

Where do I begin, I have so many memories of growing up with James that I will forever hold close in my heart. We lived in the same neighborhood, attended church, and went to school together. I think back on those memories and a smile comes to my face. I will never forget the countless times that Preacher Fox would stop his sermon and call out me, Karen Brown and James and make us come down front and sit because we were mis-behaving during the church service. Of course James would always blame me and Karen. I could go on and on of all the fun times we had growing up. James and the entire Fox family never forgot their Gaffney family when they moved away. I pray God will always be there to bless your family, to give you the strength to recover from the deepest sorrow. We will always keep him alive in out memories and celebrate them to keep him a part of our lives forever. RIP James

My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. James had a brilliant talent for music through his leadership. He will be missed by so many and the impact he made on his family, friends and fellow students will be felt forever.

James brought beauty, life and love into the world with his faith, his family and in his devotion to bring music to all those around him. God bless and keep him and give peace to his family and friends.

In memory of James Fox, Terry Fox lit a candle

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Our love and prayers are with you all…Mary Ellen and Becky

Mr. Fox taught middle school band to me and three of my siblings. I loved my instrument, but the respect I had for him was what motivated me to practice every day. He always pushed me to be the best I could be, and even invited me to play at his church one Sunday. I got so nervous that during the performance I didn’t play a single note, I just pretended to play and hoped he wouldn’t notice. He definitely knew, but I received a check in the mail from the church anyway. It was the first paycheck I ever received. Through all he battled, it is a comfort to know that he is finally at peace. I know without a doubt that he’s up there playing the trumpet for Jesus now.

I worked with Mr. Fox at HPA, and one thing I learned from him was how much he loved his wife and kids. He was so proud of you all. My condolences to your family. He was a great man.

Where do you begin to pay tribute to the legendary, James “Foxy” Fox? He was my mentor when I was a student teacher at League Middle School and Wade Hampton High School in 1987. It is there that he shared his thoughts on band and music in a child’s life: “teach them to love music and it will become something they carry with them forever.” In the 33 years I’ve taught band and music in SC, California and Florida, his words have been the foundation in the classroom. My sincere condolences to his beautiful family and the countless friends and students who will forever be impacted by his life, as well as, his absence. I will miss the conversations, the laughs and his positivity in all things whether it be at the highest mountain or the deepest valley, he always cared about others above himself. You will be missed my friend but this is not goodbye. Until we meet again, D

In memory of James Fox, Samantha Mumford lit a candle

I am so thankful that I got to meet James one year ago. What an incredibly kind and talented, godly man he was. He always made me feel welcome at church and I even got to play a little music with him. I look forward to seeing James again someday in heaven. I know he'll be there making music and leading the worship. Sending prayers for his wife and family. He was very proud of you all. His love for God and his family was abundantly clear. He will be greatly missed.

James truly had remarkable talent and a great effect on my kids when they were in the Blue Ridge Marching Band. They loved him as we did. There was never a dull moment when he was around. We often rode motorcycles with him and Melissa and the crew and that was such fun too. He will be missed by many! I will be out of town during the see service but the family will be in my thoughts and prayers that day and many days to come.

Mr. Fox was my middle school band teacher. He was the reason I decided to do band. He worked with my mom, Donna Smith, at the high school before transferring to the middle school. I was fortunate enough to get to know him before I ever started middle school. He was always laughing, smiling joking and I wanted to be in band just so I could have him as a teacher. He was always one of my favorite teachers and I’m so glad I got to have him for not just 1 year but 3. My favorite memory with Fox was when we went to carowinds for the band contest. It was the year the borg roller coaster opened and we were all so excited and scared to ride it. I had the honor of ridding beside him and I’ll never forget both of us screaming our heads off. It was so much fun and one of the best memories I have from school. He will be missed by so many people but I hope knowing how many people he has touched, influenced, and encouraged will bring all of you some joy during this season of grief. I pray for peace and comfort for all you. Mr. Fox is with our Lord and Savior and now he has been made whole.

The love of music....Is a song of our heart....where memories of James will never depart. Remembrances of years long long ago...My friend for a lifetime...is gone too soon. Sending my prayers and love to all the family Kathy~

James will surely be missed. My mornings at Waffle House were always interesting when he was there. I really enjoyed talking with him and sharing things of mutual concerns. I will miss him, my prayers are with the family.

Melissa I am so sorry for your loss my prayers are with you all James was a good man and good father and a good friend Rest In Peace James I will always remember the good time

Melissa, Chad and Katie, you already know how much James was loved by all of us. He was a wonderful mentor to Jeremy and Jamie. The fond memories are too numerous to count. We are so proud to call James our beloved friend. Please know we will continue to pray for all of you as we grieve along with you.

James grew up on the street behind me when we were young. I have many happy memories of playing with him as children. My prayers are with the family. He will be missed.

One of the best teachers I ever had, he inspired me to be better. He was also a great friend to his students. Prayers for his family and all who loved him.

In memory of James Fox, Wanda Gambrell lit a candle

The loss of James means that a music library has been lost and volumes of wisdom and knowledge are also gone. Wait for me, my friend!

I'm so sorry for your loss. James was a man who touched so many lives. He was a wonderful person to work with at BRMS. He will be so missed.

James was such a wonderful man and will be missed by so many! James had a gift that he shared with so many - a way to motivate, inspire and achieve a common goal through music. Music can be a powerful sermon - and it is one that James preached with passion! James cared about each individual that he worked with, and it shined with each interaction! I know that he is currently singing or playing in Heaven's Band/Choir - what a sound that must be!!! My prayers are with the family and all of us who grieve the loss of our great friend! My Joy is in knowing that we will meet and sing together again!

What a great man! He will be missed! Praying for the entire family.

Mr. Fox was incredibly influential in my life and many others. He was my middle school band teacher and expected nothing left than the best. He was an excellent teacher and always helped others, even visiting the high school marching band practice after his regular work hours. Mr. Fox had a huge impact on my approach to life and gave me a long lasting work ethic, things I will always be grateful for. Beyond all of that, he was extremely friendly, always smiling, and a great example of what a Christian should be. My deepest condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.

Frances & Ralph are very sorry of the passing of James. He has left A good Legacy that will always be remembered the way he could always make you laugh with his wise cracks. He will be greatly missed.

So sorry to hear about "Fox" so fondly called by my son. He was an incredible mentor to my son at Blue Ridge and they became life long friends. James was loved and respected by so many. He will be missed.

Me Fox was a great one! Probably the reason I ever played the flute and stuck with it for 4 years! Prayers for your family during this time and the days to come.

I was so sorry to hear about Fox’s passing. I first met Fox when I started teaching at Blue Ridge Middle School. He was the first person that welcomed me to the school. I really appreciated that he took time to say hello and make me feel welcome. He had a great sense of humor and was so nice to be around. Our kids are better off because of him.

James always brought a smile to my face ! I think of him in choir practice going over and over our parts until we had it ! He demanded excellence in everything he took on whether just a hymn , cantata ,quartet, or instrumental. This honestly had been hard for me to accept.Noah was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer 3 yrs ago and God allowed him more time with healing . Why not James , I can not answer . All I do know is James is healed now, no suffering! I can imagine him playing every instrument , perfect for sure . Directing the finest choir ever heard . I pray for all your family in the coming days as God helps you with the grief you are bearing. Love , Noah and Cathy

My thoughts and prayers to his family. I did not know him personally but many of my relatives went to Blue Ridge and they thought he was the greatest. Jeffrey my nephew told me one thing that stood out was when they made a cross in the middle of the ball field.

Sorry to hear of the Fox's passing. I worked a couple of his band camps when he was at Wade Hampton in the mid 1980's. Most personable and funniest guy I ever met. This memory is from nearly 40 years ago. That alone tells of the great impression he made on me. Great guy. My condolences to the family.

Dear Melissa, Children, all Grandchildren, Family and Friends, we are praying for you all. James touched so many lives with his love of music and sharing musical talent. There are not enough words to express how much he is loved and admired. He is no longer suffering but is with Jesus, walking on Streets of Gold, and in a New, Perfect body. James always had such a warm smile and loved everyone. He was always concerned with other people. James was an exemplary husband, son, father, grandfather, uncle, friend, music director, and a Christian man. There are not enough how much he is missed. He always had a positive outlook on life. He missed being able to go to church, to go to family events, and other aspects of life. James was a very giving and caring individual. May God provide your each and every need including grace, peace, comfort, love and discernment. If there is someone, either a Friend or Family Member, who is not saved, may this be the time that someone will repent of their sins and accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Remember the special times shared with James. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love and prayers, Tonya Sabrina Mitchell and Brian Lee Pace (Daughter of the Late Rev. George J. Mitchell and Ruth Ellen Bates Mitchell)

Sorry for your loss, Prayers for you and your family.

Mr. Fox will always be remembered as the man who introduced me to music. I was blessed to be a part of the WHHS band both marching and jazz. So many fond memories, and they will live forever in my heart. Condolences to his family! Mr. Fox has left behind an amazing legacy for those who were blessed to be part of his life! WHHS c/o 1990

God blessed us with Janes’s presence in our life. We are grateful for the privilege to call him our friend. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Melissa, Chad, Katie and the many who miss him. Our love and support continue.

In memory of James Fox, Charles Floyd lit a candle

I am so sorry for your families loss. Praying for you all.

I was so saddened to hear of the passing of James. To me, he was always just Fox. I had the opportunity to follow the band when my youngest daughter was in colorguard and it was the years of state champions. How exciting it was to see all the happy faces especially Fox. He was so proud and everyone knew it. This is such a huge loos for the Blue Ridge Community. He will be greatly missed by all of us. Prayers for all his family.❤️❤️

My sincere condolences to the family. Mr. Fox will always be remembered for the things he taught me in high school such as discipline, teamwork and practice makes perfect. He left a legacy behind in the 1000’s of students lives he taught. Prayers for peace at this most difficult time. Sincerely, Brad Porter WHHS Class of 1987.

Melissa and family... Danny and I grieve with you today. Such memories we have of you all. I just printed the music for a song that James and I sang together at Berea Heights "Farther Along" which simply says we'll understand it all by and by. Hard to understand this loss far too soon in our hearts and minds. I smile when I think of the many who welcomed James into heaven. We sure found a friend in James many years ago. Wish we'd taken the time to chat with you all more. Precious memories flood my soul. We send our deepest sympathy and love now and will keep you close in thought and prayer in the difficult days ahead. RIP James.

So many memories and not enough words to describe my friendship with sweet and funny James. He always had a way of making everyone feel special. His joy and laughter will last a lifetime. He was so very proud of his family. My LOVE and PRAYERS are with you all.

Melissa and family, As I'm sure it did to so many, this news hit our family hard. We have a group family chat and we shared our favorite memories of James with each other and spoke of our love for your family. As you shared recently in a message with Tricia, James truly was "one of a kind". Serving on staff together at Locust Hill brought a lot of laughs. When I saw James just a few months ago at church at Glassy Mountain it was like we still saw each other daily. Tricia and I are praying for all of you. Just as Jesus was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. What good news this is! To be alive in Christ!

I am so sorry for the loss of Mr. Fox. He was my band teacher at Highpoint Academy. His love of music inspired me to keep learning even after he retired. He was a wonderful teacher and I will miss him and always remember him when I pick up my trumpet.

My sincere condolences to the entire family. James was such a fun loving and talented guy. I am truly sorry that his life has ended so early.

Fox was one of the biggest mentors in my life. He really did command excellence. He instilled that on all who knew him. He was a such a great man! Condolences to the entire Fox family.

Our deepest condolences to the Fox family. James was such an inspiration of faith during challenging time and we greatly will miss his passion for those old time hymns he brought to life via the MHCC choir.

Thank you for the memories, your legacy will live on. You will be missed.

So sorry for your loss. Peace love and prayers to all.

Praying for peace for all of you during this difficult time. Mr. Fox was such a wonderful man that changed the lives of so many people. I don’t ever remember a time that he didn’t bring a smile to my face when I saw him.

James Fox was a friend and band director for both of my children Chris and Chelsey …they both had the privilege of marching in the state championship Corps of Cadets at Blue Ridge High School. I respected his core values and the commitment he gave to his students and the excellence he expected from all his students. I count it a privilege to have known him as a friend. I will continue to pray for his family. Rest In Peace, my friend!

Thinking of you all as you celebrate James' remarkable life. I will continue to pray for all of you. Like him, I married into the Parks family. Every member of the Parks/Fox/Norris family was so welcoming to me, but James went out of his way to make me feel comfortable. I can almost remember every second of the first time I met him and have so many other funny or happy memories of him over the years. Truly a one in a million kind of guy. I was quite fortunate to have an opportunity to know him.

In memory of James Fox, Chris Tattersall and the Tattersall family lit a candle

Praying for the family And Friends of Mr. Fox. He will be missed by many

I worked with James at BRH, and taught Katie. I have so many fond memories of him; he always spread joy. Katie & family, I am lifting you all in prayer. His great love for his family is one of the things I remember most.

My prayers go out to the Family. Mr. Fox will be missed by many. And he gave so much of himself to his students and family. RIP Mr. Fox

Thoughts and prayers for family I work at blue ridge middle James was a awesome man will miss him

Prayers to you all

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.