James Ernest Speaks, 94, of Statesville, N.C., died Friday July, 17, 2020 at Autumn Care of Statesville.
He was born May 9,1926, in Kershaw, S.C., a son of the late Andrew and Allison (Williamson) Speaks. He was also preceded in death by his son David K. Speaks.

James attended school in Cool Springs, N.C., worked as a machinist, loved playing the mandolin and guitar, his bluegrass music, and he especially enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his loving wife Elsie (Sells) Speaks; sons, James “Jimmy” Speaks Jr. and wife Diane of Mooresville, N.C., and Phillip Leslie Speaks of Rowan, N.C.; daughter, Glenda Morris of Statesville, N.C.; grandchildren, Crystal, Angie, Brandy, and Johnny Speaks, Dawn and Steven Morris, Nathan Speaks and wife Hanna; and great grandchildren Danielle, Jaden, Jasmine, Andre, Kameron, William, Kyleigh, Corbin and Sara Beth Speaks, Keyona and Kenota Chambers, Olivia and Austin Cagle, and Racheal, Junior and Holly Morris.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced when completed.

Reavis Funeral Home of Statesville is honored to serve the family.