James Heyward King

Pastor James Heyward King, age 78, fought a good fight, he has finished his course. He kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for him a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, gave him on Thursday, October 16, 2025. He is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy Pollard King; his devoted children, D. Sherrell King, James H. King II, Daphne David (Eric), Harry W. Howard (Wendy), and April Howard Watkins (Robert); 10 cherished grandchildren, Savanna Jones, Trey Jones, Mina Chaison (Garrett), Emma King, Noah David, Joshua David, Christopher Watkins, Nicholas Watkins (Kayla), Logan Watkins and Torrence Howard; and 3 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brother, Robert H. King (Faye) and sister, Regina King Etheridge (Earl).

He has joined his Lord and Savior; his parents, Robert H. King and Naomi G. King; his daughter, Sharonda A. King; and his wife of 18 years, Geraldine “Gerri” M. King.

James graduated from Biloxi High School in 1965 and was a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ for nearly 60 years. He faithfully served churches in Lucedale, New Hebron and Hattiesburg, Mississippi and retired in July 2025 from being the pastor of D’Iberville Christian Assembly, after 44 years of dedicated service. James also served as the chaplain for the City of D’Iberville, MS. He performed countless weddings, funerals, hospital visits and dedications, always eager to serve his community. He was unequivocally loyal to the spreading the Word of Jesus Christ and being available to all who were in need. He greatly valued time spent with family and fellow pastors. He was a beautiful pianist, loved to fish and attend local football games, especially with his grandchildren. His unwavering dedication to the ministry of Jesus Christ made an everlasting impact on more lives than we can imagine.

Please join our celebration of his life, love and salvation on Monday, October 20, 2025 at D’Iberville Christian Assembly located at 3496 Popps Ferry Road, D’Iberville, MS. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with the service commencing at 12:00 noon. A graveside service will be held immediately following at the Biloxi National Cemetery.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to his loyal parishioners, community members, friends, and the amazing and compassionate caregivers at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital for your prayers and support during this time of transition. We are truly blessed to know you all.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Pastor James Heyward King.