James Carmel McClure, Jr.

It is with sadness we announce the passing of James Carmel McClure Jr., known to everyone as Jim, of Vestavia Hills, Alabama. He passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at the age of 79.

Jim was a quiet man whose love for others showed itself through his actions. He was unwaveringly selfless, and if he called you a friend, you knew he meant it. He was a devoted father to Jimmy McClure, and a loving husband to Jill McClure.

Born June 19, 1947 at his family home in Coosa County, Alabama, Jim was the son of the late James Carmel McClure Sr. and Annie Bell McClure. He had two siblings, the late Harold McClure, his brother; and the late Juanita Wilson, his sister. He attended B.B. Comer Memorial High School, and after graduation, he proudly served in the U.S. Navy. He spent four years in the waters of Vietnam on the USS Hancock, running the flight crew that launched fighters off the carrier deck. He also conducted missions up the jungle rivers rescuing downed pilots. On one mission, after his boat was destroyed, he floated back downriver over several nights to return to friendly territory. He came home and earned his degree from the University of Alabama.

Jim spent his career in the electrical industry as an engineer, salesman, and branch manager, serving at Moore Handley, Wesco, and Inline Electric Supply Company. He built a loyal following across Alabama by treating people well. He had a reputation for being trustworthy, reliable, and always willing to help. If a customer needed anything, at any time, they knew they could call on him. After 35 years in the industry, he retired.

Jim was active and connected to his community throughout his life. He enjoyed fishing and skiing at Lake Martin, and spending time at the beach, especially Fort Myers and Gulf Shores. Jim loved Alabama Football and held season tickets for over forty years. He added the sport of golf, and river fly fishing in the Smoky Mountains to his outdoor activities later in life. He and Jill had a passion for traveling. They traveled all over the U.S., Canada, England, and Italy. Every place was his “favorite place”, often planning the next trip before he returned home. He was also proud of his Scottish heritage, enjoying trips to Scotland and even learning to play the bagpipes and becoming a part of the Alabama Pipes and Drums Band.

Jim served the Lord all of his life. He taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and sang in the choir. He served as a trustee and deacon for many years. He was devoted to his church family through Lakeside Baptist Church, New Beginnings Baptist Church and eventually Hunter Street Baptist Church.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jill McClure; his son, Jimmy McClure; his sister, Katherine Ennis; his nephew, Dean McClure; his niece, Anita McClure; his great-nephews, Austin McClure and Tyler McClure; and two nieces, Kaitlyn Davis and Sarah Davis.

Visitation will be held Monday, July 20, 2026 at 10:00 am at Hunter Street Baptist Church, with the service to follow at 11:00 am and graveside service immediately after at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Hoover, Alabama. Currie-Jefferson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.