James H. “Sonny” Everitt, Jr.

Funeral services for Mr. James H. “Sonny” Everitt, Jr. will be conducted at 11:00 am Monday, December 1, 2025, from the sanctuary of the Prentiss Methodist Church, with Dr. French Tripp officiating, assisted by Reverend Randy Youngblood and Reverend Tom Jackson. Interment will follow in the Prentiss Cemetery. Mr. Everitt, age 89, entered into the eternal rest of his Lord Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. Saulters Moore Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Mr. Everitt will be carried to his final rest by those honored to serve as pallbearers, including Phillip Everitt, Bradly Sharp, Cade Caldwell, Brad Shivers, Chad Shivers, and William Blackburn. Serving as honorary pallbearers are Dr. J.R. Dumas, Jr., John Davies, Charles Ratliff, Jim Johnson, Joe Hutchins, Allen Blackburn, and Tommy McGraw. Special music will be presented by Connie King, Willie Davis, and Tony Waits.

The family will receive friends Sunday evening, November 30, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Saulters Moore Funeral Home; Visitation will resume Monday morning at 10:00 am until the hour of service at 11:00 am at Prentiss Methodist Church.

Sonny, as he was known by the many that loved him, was born on January 28, 1936, in Prentiss, Mississippi to James H., Sr. and Ida “Sal” Day Everitt. In career and life, Sonny embodied dedication. His education began at Prentiss High School, from which he graduated in 1954, having played football for the Bulldogs. He married his beloved Lorene Brister in 1957, forging a partnership that would span decades. Following his graduation from Millsaps College in 1958, he returned home to work for Prentiss Electric. At Millsaps College, he was proud to be a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity, which laid the foundation for many lifelong friendships. He also maintained a profound love for his Mississippi State Bulldogs throughout his life, holding season tickets to support their athletics.

Sonny's contributions to his community were numerous. He was a charter member of the Prentiss Country Club and served as President of the Prentiss Civitan Club. His civic involvement extended to the Prentiss Rotary Club, where he worked diligently to enhance the town he loved so much. He was also one of the founders of Prentiss Christian School, contributing his time and efforts as a member of the board of directors. Sonny's love for youth sports was evident as he coached and volunteered at Price Field in both the Dixie League and Pony League.

His commitment to service didn't end with local initiatives. As a proud missionary with Baptist Medical and Dental Mission International (BMDMI), he served on the construction team, bringing hope and help to those in need. Sonny was also a member of the Run for the Roses Committee and actively participated in the Chamber of Commerce, leaving a lasting impact on our community.

In addition to his numerous leadership roles, Sonny’s heart was deeply rooted in his faith and his church. Over the years, he served on multiple committees at Prentiss Methodist Church, taught Sunday School, and held the position of former Sunday School Superintendent. He was also a cherished member of the chancel choir, sharing his love of music with others.

Mr. Everitt’s legacy of kindness, leadership, and generosity will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a community enriched by his presence and many fond memories shared by all who had the honor of crossing paths with him.

Mr. Everitt is preceded in death by his parents, James Harlos Everitt, Sr. and Sal Day Everitt.

His memory will forever by cherished by his beloved wife of 68 years, Lorene Brister Everitt; his daughter, Tammye Hawthorne (Glenn) of Richland; his sons, James H. (Jay)  Everitt, III (Tressann) of Prentiss, and Phillip Everitt (Amy) Eads, TN; and his sisters, Elaine Turpin (Randy) of Atlanta, GA and Pam Shivers (Ronnie) of Prentiss. The legacy of their Pop will also live on through his grandchildren, Sally Day Sharp (Bradly), Jennings Everitt, Loriann Everitt, Phillip Everitt, Jr., Maddie Everitt, and his great-grandson, Brister Sharp.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com.