James Humbles
James Henry Humbles, or “Bobby” to those who knew and loved him, departed this life on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
Born on November 13, 1944 in Gladstone, Virginia, Bobby was the youngest son of the late Boyd Edward Humbles and the late Rosa Vaughter Humbles. Even as a young boy Bobby commanded any room, partly because he was tall for his age and would eventually tower well over 6 feet. However, Bobby’s personality was what made him larger than life. On the outside, he nearly always wore a bright smile accompanied by a deep booming voice, a mischievous laugh, or a softly spoken joke that may not have been meant for everyone to hear. In quiet moments his eyes spoke volumes when words were unnecessary or insufficient. On the inside he possessed a gigantic heart of gold.
Bobby joined Mt. Airy Baptist Church at an early age where he regularly attended Sunday School and worship services with the family. Educated in the Appomattox County school system, he graduated from Carver-Price High School in 1963. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he would serve in various capacities including active duty in the United States Army, the United States Army Reserves, and the Army National Guard. During his 13 years of military service, he was a member of the Military Police and later a member of the Army’s medical personnel (as a practical nurse specialist, and ultimately, a medical NCO [or non-commissioned officer]). The Army honored Bobby with the following awards and medals: Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Expert Weapons Qualification Badge (Pistol .45 Cal), National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal.
A lifelong learner, Bobby continued his education when he retired from military service. He earned both his Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees from Howard University in Washington, DC. He also earned an Associate degree from Central Virginia Community College. His education, service, and training contributed to a career providing medical care for others until he retired.
Bobby leaves a loving family to cherish his memory; one daughter, Renee’ Humbles; three sons, James E. Humbles, Brian K. Humbles, and Stacey M. Humbles (Shirley); 6 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; two sisters, Barbara Humbles Moore (Carl) and Veronica Humbles Wright; two nephews; five nieces; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by one sister, Catherine Humbles Johnson (Otheaphus) and one brother, Louis Edward Humbles.
A memorial service with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 31, 2025, at Bruce & Stiff Funeral Home with Rev. Tony Cousins as eulogist. Burial will follow at the Mt. Airy Baptist Church cemetery.
