James Douglas McPhail

James Douglas McPhail, 90, of Durham passed away on May 11, 2024. 

He was born to the late Margaret and James Robert McPhail, of Wade, on August 31, 1933. Also preceding him in death is his wife, Lula McPhail and son, James Douglas McPhail, Jr. 

James was a hard worker that always prioritized family and God first. He was very humble and well respected by all who knew him. James was a man of few words who put others needs first and never wanted to burden anyone. 

Left to cherish his memory is his daughter, Ann Matthews (Marc); granddaughter, Taylor "Taterbug" Thomason (Brad); great grandchildren, Tate "Buckshot" and Kinsley; brother, Larry McPhail (Rita); nieces, Amy Jannetta (Ernie) and Toni Russ (Lee); great niece, Marisa Jannetta, and a great nephew, Haiden Jannetta.

A graveside service at Old Bluff Presbyterian Cemetery is scheduled for 2pm on May 15, 2024. 

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Old Bluff Presbyterian Church, 5764 Goldsboro Road, Wade, NC 28395 (make checks payable to Old Bluff Presbyterian Church).

Services are entrusted to Sullivan’s Highland Funeral Service & Crematory.

I don’t know how anyone can go through a loss like this without Jesus. There is a song by Ben Fuller called “If I Got Jesus” that has really helped me, and I believe the message in this song can help others.

No doubt I will have many days and nights that I will feel lost and need direction, the song “Red Letter Blueprint” by Scotty McCreery is the blueprint I will turn to. 

Jesus died on the cross for us, he didn’t have to do it, but for us he did. Please listen to “Man On The Middle Cross” by Rhett Walker.