James Robye Read

James Robye Read, 89 of Vance, AL, passed on November 15,2024. He was a former law enforcement officer with several jurisdictions in the area and in Mississippi. He was a member of the Bessemer Fraternal Order of Police Lodge; NRA Life Member; Founding member of the Alabama Deer Growers Association; and a member of Canaan Baptist Church. He is preceded in death by his parents, Roby and Bessie Read; loving wife of 43 years, Chestine W. Read; mother of his 4 children, Margarette Cleghorn McDonald; sister, Emma Jean Seals and brother, John Read. James is survived by his sons, James M. Read (Theresa), Thomas K. Read, Donnie Evans (Monica); daughters, Robye A. Kohler (Al) and Tina Talyor (Mike); brother, Billy Read; 11 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and many special friends. Memorial service is planned for December 7, 2024 at Oasis of Praise (6922 Pocahontas Rd, Bessemer 35022) at 11:00 AM.