James Henry Yancey was born December 15, 1929, to the late Mattie Turner and later adopted by Jim Yancey.

Known affectionately as "Ditto," James was a hardworking sharecropper, laborer, and "Bread Man," who spent many years working with his friend WC "Joe" Palmer at Mason Funeral Home. He was a dedicated provider and beloved by many.

James peacefully passed away on October 28, 2025, at NHC Health Care in Somerville, TN, surrounded by family. He  leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and cherished memories that will be embraced by his 3 sons:  Stanley (Josephine) Yancey of Byhalia, MS; Timothy Yancey of Riverdale, Ga; and Willie Yancey of Cincinnati, OH; 9 daughters-Carrie McCall Yancey of Millington, TN; Pearl (Elton) Howard and Ida (Wilbur) Cole both of Memphis, TN; Patricia Yancey of Millington, TN; Jewell (Michael) Claxton of Memphis, TN; Mary Mason of Mason, TN; Lorie Yancey of Ripley, TN; Deborah Yancey and Kathy Owens both of Somerville, TN; and 3 generations of grandchildren; a very dear and close friend Marilyn Jones of Memphis, TN; former wives who shared in his life-Hattie Yancey of Millington, TN and Dorothy Gude of Covington, TN.

In addition to his parents, preceding him in death includes two sons, Robert "Bob" Henard and James  "BaeBro" Yancey and two daughters- Eva Barker and Sharon Gude.