Judge James C. Strait

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Judge James C. Strait, who departed this life on November 26, 2025, at Bolivar Medical Center. Born on December 9, 1946, in Gunnison, MS, to Lewis B. Strait and Dorothy Imogene (Sappington) Strait, he was raised in Rosedale, MS.

James graduated from Rosedale High School and went on to attend Mississippi Delta Community College, where he continued playing football and was eventually inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame. He later transferred to Delta State University, but his studies were interrupted when he was drafted into the Army. Years into his professional career, while serving as a Justice and Municipal Court Judge, he continued his education through the University of Mississippi School of Law.

James served in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Hawaii and attached to the 82nd Airborne. He achieved the rank of Sergeant and held top-secret clearance.

After returning to Bolivar County, James owned and operated Strait’s Kwik Mart in Rosedale for nearly 25 years. During that time, a community member approached him seeking a respected local businessman willing to run for the judge's seat. Though hesitant at first, James ultimately entered the race—and won.

He considered it a great honor to earn the trust of his community, serving as a Bolivar County Justice Court Judge and as a Municipal Court Judge in several Delta towns. After selling his business, he dedicated himself entirely to the bench, serving as a judge for more than 40 years.

James was a longtime member of the Board of Justice Court Judges, where he also served as both Executive Director and Board President. He was recognized as Bolivar County’s longest-serving judge—a record surpassed by only two other judges in the State of Mississippi.

Beyond his career, James cherished spending time with family, especially creating lasting memories with his grandchildren, and he greatly enjoyed playing golf with his friends. He was also a devoted member of the Cleveland Church of Christ.

James leaves behind his loving wife of over 30 years, Wilma Weeks Strait; his sons James Calvin Strait Jr. (Kathy); Benjamin Claude Strait (Sharon); daughter Mary Allison Strait-Philbrick (Jim); step-sons Mark Eliot Kimbell (Misha); Richard Kevin Kimbell (Christy); bonus daughter Heather Marie Kimbell (Anthony Rizzo) and his cherished grandchildren Abby Strait, Cal Strait, Ansley Strait, Katelyn Harris, Kylie Strait, Kirsten Strait, Corbin Strait, Kenadie Strait, Turner Kimbell, and Shelby Kimbell. He is also survived by his sister, Ethel Williams (Jim), and his brothers, Bill Strait (Nelda) and Charles Strait (Janice), as well as many nieces and nephews who will carry on his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis B. Strait and Dorothy Imogene (Sappington) Strait.

A memorial will be held on November 30, 2025, from 2 pm to 3 pm, followed by a Service at 3 pm. If you wish, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude instead of flowers, in honor of his tradition.

James, as he was affectionately known, was a bright light in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him. His life was defined by love, compassion, and an unwavering faith in God. His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. We ask that he be remembered not for how his life ended, but for how he lived—and for the profound impact he made on everyone blessed to have known him.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to all the friends who have offered support during this difficult time. Your thoughts and prayers have brought great comfort and are deeply appreciated. A special thank you goes to our home nurse, Taylor Watson, for the exceptional care and compassion she provided.