James Townson

Mr. James Townson, age 81, of Guntersville, Alabama, died on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at Shepherd’s Cove Hospice.

 Funeral service will be held at 11: 00 am on Friday, October 18, 2024, at the Guntersville First United Methodist Church with senior minister, Kenny Baskins, officiating. Reception will follow at the Guntersville Museum. Visitation will be on Friday from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at the church. 

 Mr. Townson was born in Alabama on October 20, 1942, to James Ernest and Lessie Johnson Townson. In 1968, James and J. Paul Martin were instrumental in establishing what is now the Funeral Service Education Program at Jefferson State Community College in Birmingham. James served as the program coordinator until his retirement in 1997. James also served the City of Guntersville as a long-time Mayor during a time of great growth.

 Mr. Townson is survived by stepson and daughter-in-law: Rob and Martha Smith of Birmingham. Grandchildren: Brownlee Smith and Julia Smith both of Birmingham. 

 Mr. Townson was preceded in death by his parents: James Ernest and Lessie Johnson. Wife: Robbie Townson. 

 Honorary pallbearers will be Randy Beard, Bill Cranford, Julio Jimenez, Dickie Mason, David Miller, Bill Ramsey, Gene Townson, and Tim Weaver. 

 Family has requested in lieu of flowers donations be made to Shepherd’s Cove Hospice 408 Martling Road Albertville, AL. 35951