James "Jimmy" Ellis Wilbanks, Jr.

James Ellis Wilbanks, Jr. (Jimmy) passed away on January 12, 2026, at the age of 82, near Vidalia Georgia. He was born on February 15, 1943, in Commerce, Georgia, the son of James Ellis Wilbanks, Sr. and Margie Elizabeth Cheatham. He grew up in Commerce during his early years and Dublin, Georgia, where the family moved in 1955. He died as the result of injuries sustained in a car accident.

Long-time resident of Vidalia, Jimmy was known for his upbeat attitude, his sense of humor, and his willingness to reach out to others. His love of animals and distinctive walking style made him a known figure. He was born singing, and used his gift in churches, community choirs, and on any and all occasions.

He attended Commerce elementary School and graduated from Dublin High School in 1961. He graduated from the University of Georgia with a bachelor’s in business administration and minored in music, played in the Dixie Red Coat Band, and sang in the Glee Club and with the University Singers.

Jimmy spent his career in the textile industry, primarily with Oxford Industries as well as Georgia Home Exteriors. He was a consultant with the National Federation of Independent Business. In later years, he served as youth director of First United Methodist Churches of Vidalia and Lyons and enjoyed leading young people on skiing trips to West Virginia and elsewhere. For many years, he served the Vidalia Presbyterian Church as a principal singer in the church choir and as a faithful worshiper.

He enjoyed a happy marriage to Nan Fulmer for forty years. He is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Cheatham Wilbanks; his sister Jane Wilbanks Bowden Pressly (Paul), nephew; Rob Bowden (Jessica); great niece, Elizabeth Anne Bowden Wright (Ben); great-great nephew, Noah Christoper Wright; great nephew, Henry Walker Bowden ( Kailey); step great nieces, McCall and Jamison Deloach; and “adopted” grandchildren, Chase Moye and Zach Moye, and their mother Stephanie Moye.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nan Fulmer Wilbanks; his father, James Wilbanks; his brother-in-law, Ralph O. Bowden III; and his niece Betsy Bowden.

The funeral service will be held at Ronald V. Hall Funeral Home on Wednesday morning, January 21, 2026, at 11:00 with Pastor Ben Martin officiating. Interment will follow at Pine Crest Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday morning from 10:00 until just prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to SOAPS (Sweet Onion Animal Protection Society) PO Box 210, Vidalia GA 30475 or Vidalia Presbyterian Church, 400 Church St., Vidalia, GA 30474.

Ronald V. Hall Funeral Home of Vidalia is in charge of arrangements.

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