James Caroll Hennington, a resident of Wesson, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the age of 79, surrounded by the love of his family. Funeral services honoring his life will be held at 2 p.m., on Monday, February 24, at Sylvarena Baptist Church, with interment to follow in the church cemetery. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation period from Noon until the service time at the church.
Mr. Hennington was predeceased by his cherished wife of 54 years, Shirley Ann Hutson Hennington. Their enduring partnership was a cornerstone of his life and a testament to lasting love. He also joins in rest his parents, William Henry Hennington and Winnie Mae Rich Hennington Smith, his stepfather, Mathew Butler Smith, and his infant brother, Will Hennington.
He is lovingly survived by his devoted children: Darlene Lewis and her husband Mike of Brandon, MS; Laurie Chassion and her husband Joey of Wesson; and David Caroll Hennington and his wife Holly of Canton, GA. His legacy continues through his five grandchildren: Trey Chassion and his wife Ariel, Anna Lewis Gunn and her husband Sam, Hailey Chassion, Ava Mae Hennington, and George Hennington, and his great-grandson, Truett Chassion. He also leaves behind his dear sister, Zoula Mae Huffman and her husband George of Wesson, MS, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who will deeply miss him.
James Caroll Hennington was known for his strong work ethic and dedication, exemplified by his career achievements, including being recognized for his exceptional driving abilities by Walmart, leading to invitations to skill challenges at their headquarters in Bentonville, AR. Beyond his professional life, James was a man deeply committed to his family. He took immense pride in the accomplishments of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandson, often sharing their stories with anyone he met. His support was unwavering, evident in his enthusiastic attendance at countless sports events, band performances, and rodeos, cheering on not only his immediate family but also his nieces and nephews.
A true outdoorsman, Mr. Hennington instilled a love for nature in his children and mentored younger generations in his family, guiding his nieces and nephews in appreciating the natural world. His warm personality, characterized by his infectious smile and welcoming hugs, earned him the affectionate titles of “Uncle Caroll” and “Pawpaw” from a wide circle of both relatives and friends. His family finds solace in the rich tapestry of memories created and shared, ensuring that his spirit and love will live on through those who knew him.
Caroll and Shirley’s love story began with an elopement to Livingston, AL, on November 26, 1965, during Thanksgiving. Their 54 years together were filled with shared adventures and passions. In the 1970s, they embraced the CB radio culture, known by their handles “Ranger Slim” and “Lady Ranger Slim.” The 1980s saw them enjoying square dancing at the Old Wesson School, and in the 1990s, they lovingly dedicated time to helping raise their grandchildren while continuing their passion for camping across Mississippi. For many years, their home on Beauregard Road served as the host location for the Dixie National Wagon Train kickoff campout, reflecting their generous and community-oriented nature.
In recent years, Caroll embraced social media, becoming a regular presence on Facebook to stay connected with friends and family. His faith was an important aspect of his life. He was an active member of Sylvarena Baptist Church and had attended Beauregard Church in his youth. Even after moving to assisted living, he maintained his connection to his church community by watching services online. He had simple pleasures, enjoying unsweet tea, cheering for Mississippi State, and savoring fried fish.
The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to the dedicated care team at The Aspen, including Kelly Rutland, Jesse Harrison, Virginia Petty, and Jaylan Hall, for their compassionate care and support. For those wishing to honor James Caroll Hennington’s memory, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Winnie Mae Rich Hennington Smith Memorial Scholarship, Co-Lin Foundation, P.O. Box 649, Wesson, MS 39191. These funeral services are entrusted to the compassionate professionals at Riverwood Family, and obituaries can be viewed at [their website – insert generic funeral home website link if appropriate, or remove if not].
