James Homer Waller, 86, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026, at Hospice of Davidson County. A lifelong resident of Davidson County, James was born on October 10, 1939, to John Henry Waller and Catherine Morton Clodfelter Waller.

He graduated from Reeds High School with the Class of 1957 and went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division. After completing his military service, James returned to the Lexington, North Carolina area and attended Davidson County Community College, where he trained as a plumber and welder.

James was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing and hunting. He was also a devoted sports fan, especially of Duke basketball, the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Washington Redskins. For many years he coached Little League baseball at Paul’s Chapel UCC. To many of the young players he coached, James became more than a coach. He was a mentor and a friend, and many stayed in touch with him throughout his life.

Above all, James loved his family. He had a gift for storytelling and a sharp sense of humor that kept those around him laughing. His unforgettable voicemail messages and larger than life personality ensured there was never a dull moment when he was around.

James was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ronald Waller; his sister, Janet Waller Wagner; his son, James Michael Waller; and his grandson, Nicholas Hunt.

He is survived by his daughter, Susan Leigh Waller; his granddaughter Danielle Waller (Dale Snow); grandchildren Riley Austin Hunt and Brynna Hunt (Nick Meekins); great grandsons Khoda and Samson; niece Rhonda Lankford; nephew Terry Wagner; and many extended family members and friends. James truly never met a stranger.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Salisbury VA Medical Center, Lexington Medical Center, and Hospice of Davidson County for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hinkle Hospice House of Davidson County in James’s memory.

The family will have a memorial service on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 4:00pm at Affordable Funerals and Cremations Chapel. Family will receive friends from 3:30pm to 4:00pm prior to the service at the funeral home.

A private inurnment will be held at Salisbury National Cemetery.