James Carter Presley

James Carter Presley, of Irmo, SC, passed away on December 25, 2025 at the age of 85. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Geraldine; his daughters, Karen (Dan) and Cindy (Jim); nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his son, Jim Presley; his sister, Regina Claybo; and his parents, Thomas and Ruth Presley.

Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, he joined the United States Air Force at the age of 18, rising to the rank of Captain while working twenty-three years as an air traffic control operations officer. During his years of service, he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal and National Defense Service Medal. He and his family traveled the world, but his favorite place to be was St. John’s, Newfoundland.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1981, he worked as a salesman for Polk City Directory Publication. He loved the outdoors, including being in the garden, bird watching, golfing, and fishing. Jim enjoyed music in all forms, and had a song for every occasion. He sang in a barbershop quartet in both high school and the Air Force, even touring for a short stint. His faith was an important part of his life that he expressed through music, from harmonizing with songs in church to sharing favorite hymns with his family. He was also a history buff, and shared fun facts about specific parts of our nation’s story. He passed on much of his knowledge to his grandchildren, including family genealogy. Were you to visit on any weekend, you would find Gamecock football on the TV Saturday afternoon and golf on every Sunday. Above all, Jim’s family was the most important to him. He cherished time spent together, especially summer trips to Newfoundland with his wife, Gerry. His wit, compassion, and strength were admired by all, and will be remembered forever.

A Catholic Memorial Mass with military honors will be held 11am Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church 3512 Devine Street Columbia, SC 29205. In honor of Jim, the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior’s Project, a cause that Jim supported and that was close to his heart.

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