James "Jimmy" Letchworth

James Thomas (Jimmy) Letchworth, 92, joined the Church Triumphant on Friday, December 6, 2024. He was joyfully reunited with many loved ones, including his parents, Roland and Minnie Letchworth; his beloved wife of 69 years, Joyce; and his sons, Roland McKeel Letchworth and Spencer Craig Letchworth. He also experienced a heavenly reunion with his four brothers and four sisters.

He is survived by his son Keith Letchworth and wife Cindy; grandson Spencer Letchworth and wife Kristen; granddaughters Kelly Letchworth Heritage and husband Charlie, Jenny Letchworth and fiancé Greg Pittman; step-grandchildren Greg Vandiford and wife Suzanne; Jessica O’Neal and husband Josh; Lauren Cunningham Wikoff and husband Jared; and Jared Cunningham; He is lovingly remembered by his daughters-in-law Betsy Vandiford Angel (wife of Craig) and Libby Cunningham Letchworth (wife of Roland). His legacy lives on through twelve great-grandchildren.

Affectionately known as Uncle Jimmy, he was cherished by his 19 nieces and nephews. One nephew fondly shared, “He was a great uncle to all of us.” A niece remarked, “…he has taught us all unconditional love and forgiveness.” Another niece reflected, “He is truly one of the finest people I have ever known.”

Jimmy’s devotion to his family was unwavering. He found great joy in assisting Joyce with hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Sunday meals for their children and grandchildren. He also treasured attending the Letchworth and Bynum Family Reunions. Most memorable were the Letchworth Family Christmas Dinners he and Joyce hosted at their home, which often welcomed more than 80 family members.

A devout Christian, Jimmy was deeply committed to serving others. His lifelong service began at Saratoga Christian Church, continued at Westview Christian Church in Wilson, and culminated at First Christian Church in Farmville. At First Christian, he contributed tirelessly, preparing the sanctuary and fellowship hall for events, serving as a deacon and elder, and chairing nearly every church committee. He was an active participant in the Christian Men’s Fellowship, both locally and in the district.

Jimmy was well known in the community, first through his 14 years as the Sealtest milkman and later during his 40-year tenure at Farmville Funeral Home. He approached both roles with a servant’s heart, viewing his work at the funeral home as a ministry. He was a source of comfort and support to families during their times of grief.

As a member of the Farmville Kiwanis Club for more than 40 years, Jimmy served as Treasurer for at least 20 of those years. One of his greatest joys was writing scholarship checks to graduating seniors from Farmville Central High School, helping them pursue their dreams of higher education.

A fellow church member summarized Jimmy’s impact: “If you look up ‘gentleman’ and ‘saint’ in the dictionary, you will find Jimmy Letchworth’s name in each definition.”

Special gratitude goes to Judy Whitley and Sylvia Higgins, the loving caregivers for Jimmy during the last months of his life. Also, special thanks go to the staff of Gentiva Hospice for not only the care, but the love and compassion shown to him and his family.

Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 10, at Farmville Funeral Home, 4226 E. Church Street, Farmville, NC.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 11, at 11:00 a.m. at Farmville Funeral Home, with interment to follow at Hollywood Cemetery in Farmville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Christian Church, 3776 S. Main Street, Farmville, NC 27828.

Jimmy’s life was a testament to faith, family, and service, and his legacy will be cherished by all who knew him.

Online condolences may be made at www.farmvillefh.com.