James Lee Huckabee, Jr.

James Lee Huckabee, Jr. was born on March 17, 1955, in Chatom, Alabama. He departed this life on February 20, 2026, at Springhill Memorial Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of love and care that touched the hearts of many.

Huckabee lived a life filled with devotion to his family and friends. He was a proud husband to Diane Huckabee for 44 wonderful years. Together, they raised four children: James Nathan (Jamie), Brad O'Neil (Erica), Nina Lazette (Charlie), and Melinda Katrina (Ben). He cherished his role as a father and always placed his family at the center of his world. Huckabee was also a beloved grandfather, with a beautiful roster of grandchildren: Brayden, Lawson, Sandra "Lulu," Kale, Dynae, Carmen, Bradly, Prestyn, Lucas, Maci, Ashlee, Joslyn, Shilah, Makayla, Kyralyn, and Kenneth Blake. His family continued to grow with the addition of his great-grandchild, Sawyer James, who brought immense joy to his life.

Huckabee is survived by his mother-in-law, Edith Orso, and siblings: Ronald Gene (Flo), Sara Goldman (David), Eddie Dean, Joseph Allen, and June Allison. Regarded as a special brother-in-law, Daniel Hopkins (Velma) and special sister-in-law, Dawn Davis (Richard) held a significant place in his heart. He also leaves behind sisters-in-law Lula Lofton (Randy), Emma Byrd, James Shine Orso (Debra), and Edward Orso (Lela). Additionally, he had a special niece, Falan Evans (Grant), special nephew, Eddie Byrd, Jr. (Mitzy), and a circle of dear friends, including Bill Davis (Cassie), Elmo Weaver, Hert Weaver, Lamaze Weaver, Hal Weaver, Jamie Hisel, Zac Byrd, and Matthew Deese.

While Huckabee found greatest pride in his family, he was also known for his nurturing and caring nature. His hobbies reflected his love for the outdoors—he reveled in lawn care, proudly tending to his lawn mower, and enjoyed the serenity of fishing. Huckabee had a passion for grilling and often brought family and friends together around the grill to share in delicious meals and joyful banter. He was also an avid Alabama Football fan, sharing this love with those close to him. Huckabee was a great softball and basketball player, and spent a lot of his spare time watching his grandkids play softball and baseball.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Ashley Diane Huckabee; father, James Huckabee, Sr.; mother, Louise Huckabee; brother, Bruce Huckabee; and father-in-law, James Orso.

Huckabee's wake will take place on February 24, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Freeman Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on February 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM until the 2:00 PM funeral service at McKinley Pentecostal Church with Bro. Robert Byrd and Bro. Jackie Snow officiating. Burial will follow in Byrd Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Danny Newburn, Cory Newburn, Kenneth Blake, Victor Lee, Daniel Goldman, and Jamison Lofton. 

In remembering James Lee Huckabee, Jr., we celebrate a loving man whose spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him. His dedication to his family, his unwavering kindness, and his zest for life will be greatly missed.