James Ray Vice, 99, of Gadsden, Alabama, passed away on October 29, 2026. Born on August 4, 1927, to Iber James and Jessie Irene Vice, James was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather whose love, kindness and strength will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
James had a lifelong curiosity and love of learning that never diminished with age. A natural storyteller, he delighted in sharing memories and experiences from his remarkable 99 years. Above all, his love for his family was boundless, and the stories, wisdom and memories he shared will remain a treasured part of his legacy.
James loved traveling across the United States with his family. Packing everyone into the car to explore the sights, history and beauty of the country became a cherished family tradition. He also took tremendous pride in his home and yard, and he and his beloved wife received the Beautification Award on several occasions in recognition of their care and dedication.
A man of deep faith, James was a founding member of East Gadsden Baptist Church. The church holds a special place in the family’s heart, as it was where James and his dearly loved wife of 78 years, Christine Turley Vice, were married and where their three children were baptized.
James attended Gadsden High School and the University of Alabama. He proudly served in the United States Army as an occupational counselor, helping soldiers returning from World War II transition to civilian life. Following his military service, he worked in the mechanical department at Republic Steel before joining the engineering department at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, where he dedicated 33 years of service.
James is survived by his loving wife of 78 years, Christine Turley Vice; his daughters, Joan Vice Ensley of Montgomery and Deborah Vice Scruggs (Bill) of Birmingham; and his son, Randall Craig Vice (Leslie Wood) of Birmingham.
He was a proud and loving grandfather to Carol Ensley Bennett (Todd), Brian Christopher Ensley (Shannon), Brigitte Scruggs Posey (Josh), Sommer Scruggs Komnenovich (Andreya), Taylor Vice (Taylor) and Morgan Vice Bruce (Bryant).
He was also blessed with 13 precious great-grandchildren: Cole and Jack Bennett; Ian and Alexander Ensley; Andrew and Hudson Fleming; Luka and George Komnenovich; Miller, Keller and Greer Vice; and Elliott and Palmer Bruce.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Iber James and Jessie Irene Vice; his brothers, Jerry and Wayne; and his sisters, Jewel Dean Blanton and Vickie Lunsford.
A memorial service celebrating James’s life will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Collier-Butler Funeral Home in Gadsden, Alabama. Visitation will begin at 12:30 p.m., followed by the service at 1:30 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life well lived and deeply loved.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to East Gadsden Baptist Church or a charity of the donor’s choice in James’s memory.
Final resting place will be Crestwood Cemetery, 2209 E Broad St, Gadsden, Alabama.
