James Everett Walters, 78, of Jackson, Mississippi, passed away on July 22, 2025, in his hometown of Jackson. Jim was a son, brother, husband, father, Pop and Papa—and above all else—a friend. Each role brought him joy throughout his life.

Born on October 25, 1946 in Jackson, MS and was known as Jimmy in his younger years to his family and friends. Jim was raised at Five Points by his grandparents, Jim and Babe Smith. His grandfather was known as the "Mayor of Five Points". He lived with his grandparents until his grandmother’s passing in 1965.

Jim graduated in 1964 from Central High School where he met Hazel Edwards, his wife of 58 1/2 years. Jim and Hazel met in French class and he later delivered dental supplies from Davidson Dental to the dentist office where she worked. Jim said he loved sitting behind her because she always smelled so nice. They had their first date 12-28-62 and were later married on 1-14-67 in Jackson, MS.

Following high school, Jim enlisted in the army and attended basic training as a medic. During training he gained the knowledge of wound care and even delivering babies. His training equipped him with medical knowledge and instilled a lifelong commitment to public service. He then served in National Guard for 6 years in the Dental Detachment. He continued his education at Hinds Community College where he served as student body president and a varsity debater. In 1966, he became only the second junior college student to be elected president of the Mississippi Youth Congress in its twenty-year history. He later earned a debate scholarship to Mississippi College and completed additional coursework at the University of Mississippi and the University of Georgia in police science and public administration.

Jim began his law enforcement career with the Jackson Police Department in 1968 as a beat officer walking on Capitol Street and then later moved to patrol car duty. He quickly rose through the ranks and was appointed community relations officer by Mayor Russell C. Davis. In this role, Jim helped develop the "Officer Friendly" program and initiated both a drug education initiative and a speakers bureau for community outreach. He later became Chief of Police at the Jackson Municipal Airport in 1970. He met many people in his time at the Airport including Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Mohamed Ali, Jimmy Carter, and Elvis Presley. Jim announced his candidacy for the Mississippi House of Representatives while still serving as airport police chief. He was elected to the House in 1971 and later to the Mississippi State Senate.

Throughout his political career, Jim remained committed to improving life for Mississippians. He authored and coauthored numerous bills including legislation to remove taxes on prescriptions and Bible sales. He also famously eliminated the ten-cent fee for women to use restrooms at the airport—a small but meaningful victory for equality.

Jim’s dedication to public service extended beyond politics. He served on the Board of Advisors for the Jackson Mental Health Center, was a member of both the Northside Civitan Club and Capitol City Kiwanis Club, served on the Board of Advisors for the Jackson Mental Health Center, participated in the Mississippi Peace Officers Association and National Law Enforcement Educational Fraternity, and worked with the Jackson Rotary Club to establish a Police Scholarship Fund for JPD officers. Jim prided himself on understanding the problems that faced the citizens of Jackson during those times and had a desire to work with the people of Hinds County to make it the "best place to live and raise our families".

In 1979, Jim attended the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, where he was elected class spokesman for graduation. He completed his degree at the University of Virginia during this time and earned a Sharpshooter Certificate of Excellence.

Later in life, Jim worked with various state agencies including MEMA and CHIP. He also enjoyed delivering cars between dealerships for Honda—a job that allowed him to stay active, engaged, and viewing the countryside.

Jim had a lifelong passion for reading—especially books on history and politics—and could often be found perusing Lemuria Bookstore or Barnes & Noble. He admired leaders like Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln and was known for his sharp writing skills which he generously offered to others when needed. A devoted Democrat with a love for conversation over coffee, Jim cherished time spent discussing current events with friends.

Jim is survived by his wife Hazel; his children Russell Blake Walters (Suzanne) and Leanna Brook Pace (Todd); his grandchildren Trevor Walters (Mary Cannon) and Brody Pace; great-grandchild Becket Walters; brother Gary Walters (Joan), niece Jill, nephews Daniel and Jacob; sister Kathy Allen with nieces Bella Farrelly and Emily Chisholm; and sister Betty Sue Broomhall.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Jim and Babe Smith; mother Ethel Mae Morgan; father George "Bo" Walters; stepfather Bill Morgan; parents-in-law Bill and Agnes Edwards; nephew Doug Walters; along with numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A celebration of life will be held in the Cornerstone Clubhouse on Thursday July 31st at 6pm.  

106 Cornerstone Drive; Brandon, MS 39042

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

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