Mr. James "Jim" H. Hurst, age 88, of Lakeland, Georgia, passed away at home on February 1, 2025.  He was born in Pavo, Georgia on February 10, 1936 and was the son of the late Arthur Hurst and the late Annie Evelyn Jordan Hurst.  Mr. Hurst was a veteran of the United States Air Force and served during the Korean Conflict.  He was a jack-of-all-trades and worked at different times for the Berrien County Road Department, MIDS Trucking Company as a driver and also served several years as the Fire Chief of Ray City, Georgia where he was affectionately known as "Papa" to the town's children.

Mr. Hurst is survived by three sisters: Joyce Cantrell of Adel, Georgia, Diane Robertson of Clyattville, Georgia and Carol Cubino of Barney, Georgia; a very special friend, Geraldine Yeomans of Lakeland; and a host of nieces and nephews.  In addition to his parents, Mr. Hurst was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Rose Bullard Hurst and a former spouse, Emma Cribbs.

A graveside service for Mr. Hurst will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, February 3, 2025 at Lenox City Cemetery with Rev. Johnny Hendley officiating.  Pallbearers will include Matthew Ashley, Delane Blankenship, A.J. Brogdan and Allen Westberry.  "Long Black Train" and "I'll Fly Away" will be played at the service.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.boonefunerals.com .  Boone Funeral Home, Inc. is serving the family of Mr. Hurst.