James Earl Brinkley

James Earl Brinkley, 87, of Sunbury, NC passed away peacefully on Friday, July 4, 2025.

James Earl was the husband of 57 years to Elizabeth Chappell Brinkley and the son of Bennie Aaron Brinkley and Earlie Byrum Brinkley, both deceased. James was born and raised in Sunbury and lived there his whole life. He was a farmer for over 50 years and was proud to be a member of the 5,000 Peanut Club. James Earl was a member of Beulah Baptist Church where he held numerous positions, one of which was the church treasurer for over 30 years. He was also a past member of the Ruritan Club. James Earl enjoyed spending time riding “around the block” looking at crops and watching them grow and to see who was harvesting what.

Survivors include his wife, Elizabeth; two sisters-in-law, Ann Brinkley and Betty Jean Brinkley; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, James Earl was preceded in death by two sisters, Marjorie Fowler, and Bessie Gardner; and three brothers, Marcelle Brinkley, T. J. Brinkley, and Johnny Brinkley.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 in the Chapel of Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, Gatesville, NC with Rev.Greg Jernigan officiating. Interment will follow in the Damascus Christian Church Cemetery, Sunbury, NC. Immediately following interment, the family will greet friends with a reception in the Beulah Baptist Church fellowship hall, 967 U.S.-158, Sunbury, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Beulah Baptist Church Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 101, Sunbury, NC 27979 or to the Sunbury Volunteer Fire Department, ℅ Tom Perry, 270 NC-32 N, Sunbury, NC 27979.

Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville, NC is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com