Longtime North Carolina Resident James 'Thurman' Huskins Passes Away at 96

Huskins, a deacon and elder at Mount Celo Church, was known for his adventurous life and storytelling skills.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A blurred, dreamlike photograph of an old wooden church nestled in the lush greenery of the North Carolina mountains, with soft pools of warm light illuminating the scene and creating a sense of timeless tranquility.The peaceful passing of a beloved community member reflects the enduring spirit of rural North Carolina churches.Marion Today

James 'Thurman' Huskins, a 96-year-old resident of North Carolina, passed away on March 28, 2026. Huskins had a long and varied career, working in construction, the military, and as a caretaker for a Christmas tree farm. He was an active member of Mount Celo Church for over 50 years and was remembered for his love of the Bible, his skill as a storyteller, and his passion for playing music.

Why it matters

Huskins' life story reflects the experiences of many hardworking individuals from rural North Carolina who dedicated themselves to their families, their faith, and their local communities over the course of long, eventful lives. His passing marks the end of an era for his church and the surrounding area.

The details

Huskins was born in 1929 in North Carolina and worked a variety of jobs throughout his life, including stints in construction, the military, and as a caretaker for a Christmas tree farm. He was an active member of Mount Celo Church for over 50 years, serving as a deacon, elder, and Sunday School teacher. Huskins was known for his love of the Bible, his skill as a storyteller, and his passion for playing music, particularly the 'old high-mountain sound' of Flatt and Scruggs.

  • Huskins was born on December 9, 1929.
  • He passed away on March 28, 2026.
  • A graveside service and burial will be held on April 11, 2026 at 2:00 PM.

The players

James 'Thurman' Huskins

A 96-year-old resident of North Carolina who had a long and varied career, working in construction, the military, and as a caretaker for a Christmas tree farm. He was an active member of Mount Celo Church for over 50 years.

Mount Celo Church

The church where Huskins was a deacon, elder, and Sunday School teacher for over 50 years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

A graveside service and burial for Huskins will be held on April 11, 2026 at 2:00 PM on family land.

The takeaway

Huskins' life story reflects the experiences of many hardworking individuals from rural North Carolina who dedicated themselves to their families, their faith, and their local communities over the course of long, eventful lives. His passing marks the end of an era for his church and the surrounding area.