James Benjamin Beaver III was born in Atlanta on the 24th of August 1948, to James and Garnet Beaver. He peacefully passed to be with Our Lord and Savior on the 1st of July 2026.

James lived in Decatur for the early part of his life, attended Avondale High School, and then DeKalb Technical College. In high school, he was a band member and at DeKalb Tech, he studied Heating and Air Conditioning, following in the footsteps of his father.

Called to serve during the Vietnam War, James proudly enlisted in the Marine Corps. He embraced the saying, “Once a Marine, always a Marine,” and never missed a chance to declare, “Semper Fi!”

He served his duty in Costa Rica, due to his HVAC degree, from 1968-1971 with the Fleet Marine Force Atlantic based in Camp Lejune, NC. James was also a proud member of the American Legion Post 77, Conyers.

When he returned from Vietnam, he met and married Suzan. He cared for her until her death in 2021. He also had a second wife, Diane, who also preceded him in death in 2022.

For much of his life, James owned and operated his own service company. He later served as lead HVAC mechanic at Emory University, where he made meaningful contributions until his retirement. Respected throughout his field, he built lasting friendships across every chapter of his work and life.

James loved the beach and moved to Brunswick after retirement in 2020. He was the ultimate “Parrot head” and he is sure to be listening to Buffett and having a “Cheeseburger in Paradise” right now.

James was preceded in death by his parents; his former wives, Suzan Pike Beaver, and Diane Howard Beaver; his brother, William Beaver; and his niece, Brittany Beaver. He is survived by his beloved children, his greatest pride: Lisa and Ty Burnworth of Bethlehem, James and Christy Beaver of Covington, and Angela Burke of Brunswick. His legacy continues through his nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, who brought him boundless joy. His devoted little companion, Mickey, will also miss his loving care.

James is also lovingly remembered by his aunt, Katheryn Beaver-Kellett; his cousin, Victoria Griffen of Pensacola, Florida; his sisters, Patricia Beaver of Buford and Carol Lasky, and her husband, Alan, of Dacula; and his brother-in-law, James Pike of Decatur.

James was best known as someone who found joy in bringing happiness to others. He took immense pride in his family, especially his grandsons who followed his example of military service. A man of quiet strength and gentle spirit, his life reflected deep devotion to his family and community. James never passed up the chance to make a friend. With his vibrant, loving nature and generous heart, he cared deeply for people and animals alike, was always ready to help anyone in need, and remained steadfastly devoted to those he loved.

Known for his kindness and unwavering dedication, James was a source of strength and wisdom to his family and friends. He had a gift for making others feel valued, and his memory will remain a lasting light in the hearts of all who knew him. His warm smile and joyful spirit will live on.

Brunswick Memorial Park Funeral Home is honored to assist the family.