James Outland, Sr., 89, of 1669 US Highway 158 East, Sunbury, passed away on Friday, February 12, 2016 in his home where he was surrounded by his family.

Mr. Outland was born in Gates County on March 17, 1926, and was the son of the late Isaac Felton and Minnie Harrell Outland. A retired farmer, he represented his community for over 25 years on the Gates County Soil and Water Conservation District Board.

A faithful member of Damascus Christian Church, he had served on the Board of Deacons, the Board of Trustees, and as chairman of the church Cemetery Committee, where he headed the effort to place flags on veteran’s graves each Memorial Day.

A member of Tom Brokaw’s “Greatest Generation”, he was a Navy veteran of World War II, serving on the battle cruiser USS Indianapolis, sunk by a Japanese torpedo on July 30, 1945, and was one of the 317 survivors of the worst Naval sea disaster in history. He was the recipient of the Purple Heart, the World War II Victory Medal, the American Campaign Medal, the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with 1 Silver Star and 3 Bronze Stars, and eight battle ribbons.

Surviving are his wife of 68 years, Viola Brown Outland; his children, Felton J. Outland, Jr. and wife Janice of Sunbury, Teresa O. Dail and husband B.T., Jr. of Hertford, Ed Outland and wife Kim of Bonlee, and Cheryl O. Moore and husband Garry of Sunbury; 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held on Monday, February 15 in Damascus Christian Church, officiated by his pastor, John Hilts. Burial with military honors followed in the church cemetery.

Friends may join the family at the residence.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Albemarle Home Care & Hospice, P.O. Box 189, Elizabeth City, NC 27909, or to one’s favorite charity.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.