James Deavers

James Hill "Jim" Deavers, 83, of Birmingham, passed away May 26, 2017 at his residence. He was born May 23, 1934 in Montgomery, but grew up in Grove Hill. He graduated from Clarke County High School in 1952 and from the University of Alabama in 1957 where he was active in Pi Kappa Phi. He received a Masters of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He pastored Southern Baptist Churches in Texas, Michigan, Indiana and Alabama and was active in the York Rite Bodies. He also served as chaplain of the Hoover Masonic Lodge #644.


A "people person," Jim never met a person he did not like and "never met a stranger." First Baptist Church of Hoover was Jim's church home by choice and God's guidance, and this church family and its shepherd, Dr. Randy Atkinson, ministered to him and his family in every way.


He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Inez Keenam Deavers; two very special children, James H. Deavers, II (Jennifer) and Esther Deavers Thomas (Jeremy); four beloved grandchildren, Ashley Nicole Deavers, Courtney LeeAnn Deavers, Ethan Bryant Deavers and Alexandria Thomas; siblings, Larry Deavers (Linda) and Faye Deavers Jordan (Royce); many cousins, nieces and nephews.


He was preceded in death by his parents, L.B. and Sybil Hill Deavers.


A graveside service will be conducted at 12 noon on Wednesday, May 31, 2017 at Grove Hill Cemetery with Dr. Atkinson officiating and Lathan Funeral Home Directing. Hoover Masonic Lodge #644 will also participate. Visitation will be from 11 -12 at Lathan Funeral Home in Grove Hill.


In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to First Baptist Church, 2025 Patton Chapel Road, No, Hoover, AL 35216.