James Earl Bruner, Jr., an adored and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and loyal friend, went home to be with Jesus on February 19, 2026, at the age of 78. He passed peacefully, at home, surrounded by the loving presence of his family.
Jimmy was born on January 21, 1948, in his hometown of Columbus, Georgia. As a young man, he was a standout athlete, an occasional menace, and a beloved fixture in the community. He was industrious from an early age, often supporting and caring for his younger brother (Joel) and newborn triplet sisters (Arlene, Marlene, and Charlene)—whose birth made regional headlines as a first for the city. His devotion to family began early and remained the defining trait of his life. He forwent a Division I football opportunity to marry and start a family with the love of his life, Connie, his middle school sweetheart and wife of 60 wonderful years.
A dedicated company man, Jimmy built a life for his family through a successful career with Southern Bell and AT&T. Starting as a lineman and quickly working his way up to management in five years, he was a respected and valued employee for more than forty years. His hard work provided his family with priceless memories—from quick overnight trips to Panama City Beach to soccer tournaments across the United States. He rarely missed a sporting event, graduation, or milestone for his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
A true all-American hobbyist, Jimmy enjoyed woodworking, mechanics, professional arm wrestling, boating, camping, and any activity that offered a good excuse to gather his family together. The home he shared with Connie reflected the simple joys he loved: John Deere logos and model tractors on display, hand-crafted furniture and other creative works, kitchen drawers stocked with Hershey bars, and a refrigerator never without Diet Dr. Pepper. He could fix nearly anything with a roll of black electrical tape and a 2” deck screw. His tastes were simple, but his generosity, kindness, and knack for storytelling were abundant. He leaves behind a legacy of a life well lived—marked by unconditional love, steadfast character, and an unwavering faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Jimmy is survived by his beloved wife, Connie; his mother-in-law, Virginia Chambers; his children, James Earl Bruner III (Karen), Bobby Lee Bruner (Julie), and Brittany Bruner Roop (Hunter); his grandchildren, Katlyn Dickinson (Jesse), Hunter Bruner (Juliette), Logan Bruner, Celina Bruner (Evan), Summer Bruner, Bobby Bruner, Savannah Hammock, Lulah Roop, Paisley Roop, and Marshall Roop; great grandchildren, Jovi Lee Dickinson and Katie Rae Dickinson; along with his siblings, many extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Marjorie Bruner; granddaughter, Morgan Bruner; and his father-in-law, Bobby Lee Chambers.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at Faith Baptist Monroe, 1789 Highway 11 NW, Monroe, GA.
In lieu of flowers, Jimmy would ask that you love deeply, forgive freely, and place your trust in Jesus Christ.
Arrangements by Tim Stewart Funeral Home, 670 Tom Brewer Road, Loganville, GA 30052. 770-466-1544. Please sign the online guest registry at www.stewartfh.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of James (Jimmy) Earl Bruner, Jr. please visit our Sympathy Store.
Reposted courtesy of Tim Stewart Funeral Home.
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