James Harden

James Harden was born November 27, 1961, in Savannah, Georgia to the late Sarah Bush and Joe Harden. He was adopted and reared by his beloved Great Uncle and Aunt: Reverend William Bell Sr. and Mrs. Leola Bell.  James departed this life on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at The Carl Vinson VA Medical Center Hospice and Palliative Care Center in Dublin, Georgia.

James was a 1981 graduate of the Emanuel County Institute, after graduation he enlisted into the United States Army where he served 9 years prior to retuning home and beginning his career with Crider Poultry in Stillmore, Georgia. 

As a young man, James made a profession of Christian faith and became a member of the Rountree Grove Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. S.D. Bings.  James never left behind the teachings of Christ—he was a principled man of integrity always in search of the truth. In his final years, he deeply contemplated his faith, and he came full circle in his beliefs and recommitted himself to Christ.

James was a very humble, kind hearted and compassionate man to all those he encountered.  He was a joy to be in the presence of and enjoyed all things football.  James was an avid Georgia Bulldogs football fan and loved watching old cowboy movies.

Family Who Went Before

James was predeceased by his biological parents, Joe Harden and Sarah Bush, as well as his parents, Reverend and Mrs. William Bell Sr; siblings Tammy Brown, William Bell Jr., Willie Lee Bell, James Andrew Bell, and Alfonza Bell. 

Family He Left Behind

He is survived by four sisters, Robin Brown, Bettye Doyle, Roberta Warner, Arlene (Luke) Howard; one brother, Jerome Walker Bell all of Twin City, Georgia; one sister -in-law, Joann Bell; one great aunt, Rhunette James; and one great uncle, James Bell. 

We are most grateful for the gift of devoted family members Jerome Walker Bell (brother), Christopher Ennis Warner (nephew), Fredrick Daughtry (nephew), Annie Pearl Byrd (devoted Friend), who dedicated their time care, love, compassion, and support until James was called home to reunite with his heavenly father.

Whitaker Funeral Home staff is honored to serve the Harden family with Dignity, Respect and Integrity. 

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