James "J.C." Charles Lankford

James “J.C.” Charles Lankford, age 81, lifelong resident of Decatur, passed away on Thursday, June 6, 2024. He was a devoted member of Freedom Baptist Church.

He is preceded in death by his parents: J.L. and Katie Berry Lankford, his brothers: Clyde Lee Lankford, Ivan Lankford, Ralph Lankford, and Clarence Lankford, brothers-in-law: Cliff Dockery and Chuck Robinson, father-in-law: William N. Burris, and former wife: Elizabeth Ann Lankford.  

J.C. is survived by his wife of 23 years: Nina Burris Lankford, daughters: Angelia (Angie) Lankford and Mary Ann Frye, son: David Benton (Angela), Brothers: Ernie Lankford (Debbie) and Freddie Lankford, sisters: Clara Mae Robinson and Lousie Dockery, grandchildren: Haley Rutledge, Tyler Rutledge, Shyanne Rutledge, Jonathan Benton, Beth Benton, great-grandchildren: Adrian Coleman, Avianna Coleman, Devonte Jr. Coleman, Skylar Taylor, Sapphire Rose Wickham, and Serenity Rain Benton, along with many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Monday, June 10, 2024, at Ziegler Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 7:00 PM at the funeral home with Pastor Chad Oody and Pastor Chris Leonard officiating. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at Meadow Fork Cemetery in Riceville, TN.

Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Freedom Baptist Church for mission work.

If you are unable to attend the visitation or funeral service, please sign the online registry at:  www.zieglerfuneralhome.com

Ziegler Funeral Home has been entrusted with serving the family of James “J.C.” Charles Lankford.