James Fraser Kinsey, Sr.

JAMES KINSEY- James Fraser Kinsey, Sr., known to everyone as Jim, passed away on January 31, 2026, at the age of 88.

 Born in Augusta, Georgia, to Elizabeth Moss Kinsey and James Wade Kinsey, Jim lived a life defined by faith, family, and quiet generosity. Jim earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Augusta College. His career in the textile industry took him around the world and allowed him to be part of advancements that supported the medical industry. Jim was deeply involved in his community and was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church of Columbus, where co-taught the Ivy Sunday School Class. 

Above all, Jim was a family man. He was the proud father of James Fraser Kinsey, Jr. (Susie), Leslie Kinsey Webber (Doug), Sheila Kinsey Orman, Richard Allen Kinsey, and Karen Kinsey Phillips (Scott), and was blessed with 12 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great- grandchildren. You could almost always find him after church on Sundays having lunch with his family enjoying one of his favorites, Food Giant fried chicken. Jim found joy rebuilding old Chevys with friends, especially his beloved “Ole Blue.” He loved painting, admired the beauty of horses, and made sure his children were riding from an early age. He was generous in quiet ways—helping with educations, cars, vacations, or simply offering a helping hand. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Ricky Kinsey; sister, Martha Kinsey; and wife, Carolyn Brandon Kinsey. He is survived by his brothers, Benny Kinsey and David Kinsey, both of Augusta, Georgia. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Mr. John Musa, George Burnette, Milford Hough, Christian Heinkel, Larry Huggins, Martha Waltman, George Poe, Carolyn Lowery, Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Vaughn, the Parish Sibley family, Phillip Goolsby, the members of “The Out to Eat Group,” and the nurses and aides of Baptist Hospice and Garden Hill Assisted Living, whose kindness meant so much.

 A visitation will be held at Plymouth Bluff on Saturday February 7th, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.