James Womble, Jr.

James Raphael “Jim” Womble, Jr., 91, of Winston-Salem, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2026, at the NC State Veterans Home in Kernersville, NC, surrounded by his family.

Jim was born August 10, 1935, in Rocky Mount, NC, to the late James Raphael “Rufus” Womble and Myra Clough Womble. After graduating from Rocky Mount High School, he attended Campbell College, now Campbell University, where he received a 2-year associate’s degree. He later attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating in 1963 with a BA in Political Science.

In 1958, Jim was drafted by the US Army. He served from 1958 to 1960 and again from 1961 to 1964, as a Radio Operator, achieving the rank of Sergeant prior to completing his tour of duty. Jim worked in Sales for Sears, Roebuck and Company, retiring in 1993 after a 36-year career.

Jim had several passions in his life – boating, golfing, fishing, traveling and, of course, his UNC Tarheels. He took every opportunity he had to travel, whether it be a quick trip to the NC coast, a road trip across the US or a cruise with his wife, Sue. Always the wanderer, there was always a tale to tell upon their return from their adventures.

Throughout his life, Jim actively participated in church life as a Sunday School teacher, deacon and elder. Civic minded, he served his community through various civic organizations like Sertoma International where he was a lifetime member.

In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his brothers, Michael Womble and Wallace “Wally” Mathis, and his sisters, Myra Clough Womble and Nellie Frances Womble.

Jim is survived by his wife of 34 years, Sue Lewter Womble; his children, Cynthia Kay “Cindy” Womble and Michael Brock Womble (Dawn) and their mother Kay Brock Womble, grandchildren Bryce and Melinda Womble; stepchildren, Richard Teague (Sheila) and Sharon Villegas (Rey) and their children; and nieces Rhonda Strickland and Angela Barnes.

The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at Trellis, Liberty Lane House and the NC State Veterans Home for their care and support over the past year.

A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 11:00 am at Highland Presbyterian Church of Winston-Salem, NC.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a memorial donation to Highland Presbyterian Church, Sertoma International or Crisis Control Ministry.