Mr. Jessie Walter "J. W." Fairley, age 85, of the Benndale community, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026, at George Regional Hospital in Lucedale, Mississippi.

Born on October 20, 1940, in the Avent community of George County, J. W. spent most of his life in the place he proudly called home. He dedicated 37 years of faithful service to Singing River Electric Power Association, where he worked his way to the position of Line Foreman before retiring. His strong work ethic, dependability, and willingness to help others earned him the respect of both his coworkers and his community.

J. W. found his greatest happiness outdoors. Whether he was hunting hogs and turkeys, casting a line into the water, or simply enjoying the beauty of God's creation, he was truly at home in the outdoors. While he treasured those moments in nature, nothing brought him more joy than being surrounded by his family. He especially cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured for generations to come.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Mildred Fairley; and his siblings, Charles Ray Fairley, Lorene Cochran, Lavada Havard, Etoile Buckhalter, and Faye Havard.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 57 years, Janice Fairley; his sons, Jason Fairley and Mark Fairley; his grandchildren, Shawn Nolan, Chanse Fairley, J. T. Fairley, Anthony Fairley, and Linzey Fairley; his great-grandchildren, Carleigh, Octavia, Allie, Holden, Broox, Zinnia, Hazley, and Lyla; his siblings, Jackie Howell, Gene Fairley, Dean Fairley, Lavelle Fairley, and Kathie (Kenneth) Davis; along with numerous extended family members and dear friends who will forever remember his kindness, wisdom, and steady presence.

A celebration of J. W.'s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday in the chapel of Sigler Funeral Home with Bro. Don Cochran and Brennon Ferguson officiating. Interment will follow at Joe P. Fairley Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. until the service hour on Friday at Sigler Funeral Home.

J. W.'s legacy is one of hard work, unwavering devotion to his family, and a deep appreciation for the simple blessings of life. His quiet strength, generous heart, and love for the outdoors will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration for those whose lives he touched.