Bro. James Mavous Phifer, 91, of Cairo, MS, died Sunday, March 6, 2016, at Tishomingo Manor Nursing Home. Bro. Phifer was a member of Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church, and was a U. S. Army veteran. He was a Baptist minister for 54 years, and served at several churches in Tishomingo County. He was also a lifelong carpenter, and enjoyed visiting with his church members. Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 8, at Forked Oak Baptist Church, officiated by Bro. Mike Smith and Bro. Rick Johnson. Interment will follow in Forked Oak Cemetery. Pallbearers include Gerald Glidewell, Joe Glidewell, Danny Smith, Jason Cole, Ronnie McCombs, and Mike Smith. Honorary pallbearers include William “Skip” Schmock, Tony Strickland, Rusty Cole, Gene Barnes, Bob Belue, Jimmy McDougal, Tommy McDougal, and Sammy McDougal. Visitation is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. until service time at the church on Tuesday. Cutshall Funeral Home of Iuka, MS is entrusted with arrangements. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Geraline Phifer of Cairo; a sister-in-law, Juanita Phifer of Clinton; special family friends, Tony and Cindy Strickland of Cairo; two special nieces, Anita Parker of Clinton, and Janice Cole of Cairo; and several other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Dosha Parsons Phifer; and a brother, Melvin Phifer. Memorials may be made to the Forked Oak Cemetery Fund by calling Cindy Strickland at (662) 462-5605.
