James (Jim) Gaylor went to his eternal home to be with his Lord on December 31, 2021. He was born on January 23, 1951, in Columbus, GA to the late Sallie (Truitt) Gaylor and Eugene Gaylor. He is survived by his beloved wife of 9 years, Melissa Gaylor, his brother, Jerry Gaylor, and two step-daughters Deena and Casey Whatley.  He leaves a host of cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

His homegoing celebration will be conducted on 11:00 AM Friday, January 7, 2022  at Kirkland Memorial Baptist Church 6304 Lynridge Ave, Columbus, GA. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. A private graveside service for the immediate and extended family will follow at Ft Mitchell National Cemetery, Ft Mitchell, Al.  In place of flowers, donations can be made to Kirkland Memorial Baptist Church, Valley Rescue, the Gideons, or the charity of your choice. Condolences can be rendered at mcmullenfuneralhome.com.

Jim was passionate about his family. He adored his wife, Melissa. She was the most important person in his life. He loved his dog, Bruiser. He was a beloved brother who treated his nieces and nephews and their children as though they were his own. His family knew that there was nothing he wouldn’t do for them. Jim liked to get everywhere he went as quickly as possible.  Thus his journey to his heavenly home was sudden and unexpected. It is as though a bright light has been turned off, and our family will never be the same.

Jim was a people person with a larger-than-life personality. He had a contagious smile that brightened the room. Those who knew him best will remember him as a person who was a joy to be around. His big hugs, kind words, and corny jokes will be greatly missed.  

Jim loved the Lord and served him faithfully. He enjoyed singing and led the music from time to time in various churches in his younger years. More recently he served as a deacon at Kirkland Memorial Baptist Church. He worked in vacation Bible school for several years. He enjoyed participating in men’s Bible Study. The joy of his life was serving others and helping anyone in need.  

He was a graduate of Baker High School in Columbus, GA, and attended Columbus State University. He served his country in the US Army Reserves. He worked for many years in the automotive industry as a car salesman and finance manager. In his retirement years, he drove a bus for Muscogee County School District. He went out of his way to show love toward the children who rode on his bus, even going to their ballgames, and giving them special treats on holidays and birthdays. He was mentioned by many as their favorite bus driver. In his leisure time, he loved watching  Alabama football.  “Roll Tide” was his rallying cry, especially on Saturday during football season. His wife and brother would always reply with an enthusiastic, “War Eagle”.