James

Word

JAMES "SLICK" WORD was born on May 11, 1952, in Nettleton, Mississippi to the late James Hilliard Word and Sam Ella Green. He made his final jumpshot to win his last ever game on July 12, 2025.

James attended Nettleton High School with the graduating class of 1971. He attended Itawamba Community College on a basketball scholarship. He worked at Eljer Plumbing in Verona,

Mississippi for over 30 years. On September 2, 1990, he married the love of his life, his loving wife. To this union a beautiful, blended family emerged which included seven children.

He confessed Christ as his personal savior and was a faithful member of Springhill Missionary Baptist Church in Nettleton. "Slick" enjoyed plumbing and carpentry work. In his leisure time, he enjoyed spending time with his loving family and friends and fishing. He also enjoyed his time with the Low-Rider Motorcycle Club where he was president and an active member.

He leaves to honor his memories: a compassionate wife of 34 years, Antionetta Word; children,  Shenika Lowe of Tupelo, Gerald Word (Amanda) of Okolona, Cornelius Lowe of Nettleton,  Shondrimeka Bowers of Nettleton, Angela Thomas Watt of Starkville, Jeremy Word of Nettleton,  and Jessica Hughes (Jonathan) of Crawford; 18 grandchildren; sister, Louise Middlebrooks;  brothers, David Word (Edna), Frederick Word (Lynn), and Milan Word (Teresa); and a host  of nieces, nephews, family friends, classmates, and neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Sam Ella Green Word; father, James Hilliard Word; and two sisters, Oteria Jernigan and Minnie Clay.