Born in Monticello, AR on March 7th, 1948, James was never one for fancy things unless you count a perfectly sharpened pocketknife or a truck that still ran (even if just barely). He was a master of living simply and stubbornly - two of his finest traits.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Noah Wade Trantham and Myrtle Crews Trantham, of Monticello, Arkansas. He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Dye Trantham of Monticello, his daughter, Lisa Sheppard (Adam Ferguson) and two grandsons Zac and Sam Sheppard of Malvern, Arkansas, step-granddaughter Swayzee Ferguson, of Colfax, Louisiana, his daughter Valerie Quinn of Mt Ida, Arkansas; son Vencent Trantham of Umpire, Arkansas, and son Noah Trantham of Cherry Hill, Arkansas, along with 9 additional grandchildren, and many great grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister Bettie Dial, a brother Charles Wade ''Buddy'' Trantham (Susan), a brother Steve (Judy) Kelly, and two nieces Rebecca Newton (Shane) and Angela Snuffer (Darrell) all of Monticello, AR, and niece Carmen (Wade) Bonner of Alexander, AR and nephew, Mark Denham of Texas; along with a whole crew of great nieces and nephews.
James, a lifelong resident of Monticello, Arkansas, attended Enon and Drew Central schools, and was a retired truck driver. He was a man of the land and the open sky, who lived a life rich with simplicity, purpose, and loved his family fiercely. Whether spending time outdoors, tending to his garden, or caring for his horses, goats, or other farm animals, he found meaning in every season and solace in every sunrise. A lifelong hunter, he respected the land and traditions passed down through generations. He cherished quiet rides down winding back roads, where he could roll the windows down and let the world slow to his pace. He will be well remembered by family and friends for his strength, courage, and the skills to fix almost anything with his hands and a little time. But most of all, he will be remembered for his ability to outwit anyone when with mood struck - usually with a raised eyebrow and sly comment that hit the mark before you even knew you were being teased.
The family will host a visitation and memorial service on Saturday, May 24th at 2:00 pm at Immanuel Baptist Church in Monticello. Friends and family are invited to stop by to share stories and memories as we honor a man who left deep footprints on our hearts.
In lieu of flowers donations in James' memory may be made to Arkansas Hospice or Baptist Health Medical Center Drew County, who took excellent care of him during his last days with us.
Condolences(4)
June Brixie
MONTICELLO, AR Tuesday, May 27, 2025 Dear Family I am so sorry for your. I know James will be greatly missed by each of you. Prayers for each of you.Irma James
Monticello, AR Friday, May 23, 2025 To Nancy and family. So sorry for your loss of James. I know you’re heartbroken and I am thinking of all of you. May each of you cherish your precious memories.lelia davis
Monticello, AR Wednesday, May 21, 2025 I knew James as a class mate at Drew Central. He was a good friend and always tried to help you if you needed any help. He was a man of his word and everyone liked him. I know he will be missed by many. Sorry to hear of his passing.Judy (Hatley) Sipes
Jacksonville, AR Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Bettie, Buddy, & Steve, I grew up knowing James and siblings. I was in the same grade with James at Enon School, & I think my brother, Gary was in the same grade as Bettie. I remember that when my daddy needed extra help working on the farm he hired James. Daddy always bragged on James for his strength and willingness to work.I know it is hard to lose our loved ones, but we can rest assured that we will meet them again if we have accepted Jesus as Lord.
Judy (Hatley) Sipes-Smith