James Huffmaster

James "Richard" Huffmaster, Sr., age 79, of Meridian passed away peacefully on Monday, July 27, 2020 at his home.  He was born November 16, 1940 in Meridian to Charles and Beatrice Huffmaster.  He was a 1958 graduate of Meridian High School and was a long-time employee of both Fred's, Inc. and Wal-Mart where he worked in management.  Richard was an avid Ole Miss fan and never passed up an opportunity to shout "Hotty Toddy".  To know him was to love him and he loved life and sought to bring joy to everyone he encountered.  His love for God, family, friends and community will be remembered for years to come.

Richard is survived by his wife, Lois; his children Rick (B.K.), Sandra Marie Irby (Jerry), Johnny (Lesa), Ronnie (Sharon), Shelly Messer (Kirk), Melissa Denison (Charlie), and Jenny Gressett (Jerry); his grandchildren Ashley Huffmaster, Jana Flores, Lance Irby, Caleb Irby, Kala Messer, Selena Boykin, Georgia Robinson, Sarah Huffmaster, John Huffmaster, Xan Tucker, Hunter Gressett, Lili Gressett, Melissa Bates, and Marissa Price; numerous great-grandchildren; and his sister Delores Huffmaster Lawrence.  He is preceded in death by his parents Charles Oliver and Beatrice Murff Huffmaster; his siblings Charles Oliver Huffmaster, Jr., Charles Everett Huffmaster, and Catherine Huffmaster Pierce; and his great-granddaughter Presleigh Marie Boykin.

Pallbearers include Lance Irby, Caleb Irby, Selena & Wesley Boykin, John Huffmaster, Sarah Huffmaster, Georgia & Ricky Robinson, and Xan Tucker.

A brief visitation will be held from 9am to 10am, Thursday, July 30th at Stephens Funeral Home with a graveside service to follow at 10:30am at Long Creek Baptist Church Cemetery officiated by Bro. Dale Moore.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hope Village for Children online at hopevillagems.org/donate or by mail at 2433 23rd Ave., Meridian, MS 39301.

Friends may sign the online register at www.stephensfunerals.com.