James William Bendall (Jim) - Spry Funeral Home

James William Bendall (Jim), 90, of Athens, Alabama, passed away on December 2, 2024. He was born on November 15, 1934 in Courtland, Alabama to William Marvin and Lucy Seale Gates Bendall.

He graduated from Coffee High School. Jim secured a job with Reynolds Aluminum in Kentucky where he met the love of his life Doris Faye Farmer. They married on November 15, 1957, and later relocated back to Alabama. Jim and Faye celebrated 67 years of marriage.

Jim loved interacting with people. Following his 30 years with Alfa insurance, he retired and became a full-time “Papaw.” He adored his grandkids and often spoke about them. Jim and Faye also enjoyed traveling and listening to bluegrass music. They were founding and active members of Emmanuel Baptist Church. Jim loved watching Alabama football and followed the kicking career of his grandson from the Crimson Tide to the Minnesota Vikings.

Jim is survived by his wife, Doris Faye Bendall, son Ray Bendall (Ginger) and daughter Dana Swanner (Joey), grandchildren Amy Bendall, Allison Kazan (Braxton), Taylor Cathers (Nick) and Will Reichard (Amelia.)

Jim was preceded in death by both of his parents and his brother, Jack Gates Bendall.

The Celebration of Life service will be held at Emmanuel Baptist Church (Athens, Alabama) on Saturday, December 7 at 11:00 AM. Visitation will precede the service, beginning at 9:30. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Spry Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Emmanuel Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.

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8 comments

Mary Lisa Hovater

2024-12-05 04:31:20

Getting to share special moments with James and Faye has been a blessing. What an honor to be his cousin! The times together were made even sweeter with our Cousin Tracie and Dana adding to the merriment. It was heartwarming to hear James talk about the fun he had with my Daddy when they were growing up. The reflections he shared with me are.something I will continue to cherish. It was enchanting to listen to James and Faye share how they met. A love story that continued to be heartwarming. I will miss being in your presence James.

Lori Shemanski

2024-12-05 16:23:34

Ray on behalf of the EDMT team, we are all keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.

Cindy Crews Rogers

2024-12-05 18:12:11

So sorry for your loss. I only met him and Ms Faye recently at the Goldton. Such a sweet man and I’m so glad that I got to know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.

Masooma Rizvi

2024-12-05 19:10:30

Ray, you & your family is in our prayers and thoughts!

Marilyn Carter

2024-12-06 19:03:38

Mr. Bendall is one of the kindest persons I've ever meet. His sense of humor his compassion and his kindness will be greatly missed by us all. I am honored to have known him. ❤️❤️❤️ love always "Speedy"

Tom and Cathy Pallardy

2024-12-07 15:36:13

Tom and I loved Jim. We always enjoyed talking with him and were amazed by his energy and enthusiasm for river life and for his family. He always had a smile and a positive outlook on life. We will miss him!

Greenbrier TI Alabama Gang

2024-12-09 21:48:40

On behalf of all of Jim’s TI buddies from the Greenbrier gang we offer our sincere condolences to Jim’s family. He will be missed. Roll Tide Jim and God’s speed,

Drew DeArmond

2024-12-09 22:07:58

Mr. Bendall was a true friend & gentleman…so kind & supportive…a great Alabama fan & proud of his grandson Crimson Tide placekicker Will Reichard…honored to have built a friendship with him & spent time with him & the family…prayers to everyone! 🙏🏻❤️😇