James L. Short

James L. Short, 83, dedicated husband, father, and friend to many passed away at home in Maysville Georgia on November 15, 2022 surrounded by family. A native of Jackson County,  he was born on November 26, 1938 to Lewis and Louise Short.  He was one of five children, survived by Howard Short and Patricia Nix and proceeded in death by Betty Brooks and Dorothy Davidson.

James was a self-made successful businessman and entrepreneur.  He graduated from Maysville High School but joked that he had parked his car in the Harvard Yard.  He was voted best all-around boy but was told by his teacher that he was least likely to succeed.  Boy did he show her!

James worked his way from very humble beginnings into a successful car dealer, real estate investor/developer and eventually into the Kubota Tractor business. He always had a vision for economic progress.  James Short played a key role in bringing development to the area including the first industrial park in Jackson County, as well as the Commerce Tanger Outlets and many residential developments.   He was trusted by many for his advice and knowledge.  James was a forward thinker and wanted great things his community.

What you may not know about James is that he was true prankster.  He had a dry sense of humor and any day could be April Fool’s Day with him.  James always drove his cars on “E” he thought the “E” was enough to get you where you are going.  He loved his grandkids; the girls could do no wrong and the boys were just being boys.  If you had the pleasure of knowing him you would know that he was always late for everything.  He was a loving husband, father and friend and will be missed very much.

Survived by his wife Jean Short, and four daughters and spouses Sophia and Russ Meadows, Selina and Jeremy Hayes both of Maysville, Robin and Scott Gee of Marietta, and Diane Walker of Colorado Springs. James also leaves behind eight grandchildren Taylor Beatty, Rylee Meadows, Adam and Cooper Hayes, Blake and Alex Gee, Jonathan and LaChae Walker.

Funeral services will be at 11 AM, Friday, November 18 at Maysville Baptist Church with Dr. Shane Roberson, Mr. Abe Brown, Rev. Justin Gooch, Mr. Adam Hayes, Rev. Kelly Hannon and Mr. Bill Banks officiating.  Interment will follow in Riverside Baptist Church Cemetery.  The family will receive friends at Maysville Baptist Church Thursday from 4 to 8 PM.

Little-Ward Funeral Home, Commerce is in charge of arrangements.