Jimmy Bussey

Jimmy Bussey, 79, of Pine Bluff passed away at home Sunday, November 13, 2016, surrounded by his loving family after a three year battle with lung cancer. Jimmy was born on February 20, 1937 in Pine Bluff to the late James Russell and Okie Idell Williams Bussey. He grew up in Pine Bluff and graduated from Pine Bluff High School in 1955 where he played basketball. With Jimmy's 6'6'' frame and athletic ability, he was pursued by many colleges in and out of state to play basketball. One coach continued to call as late as 1960. Shortly after Jimmy graduated from high school his father passed away. At age 18, his dream of playing college basketball was replaced by the responsibility of being the sole provider for his family. Jim worked for Ben Pearson, Hudson Pulp and Paper, and retired from International Paper Company in 1998 as a Pulp Mill Supervisor after forty years of service. Jimmy's love of horses began at an early age and continued throughout his life. He enjoyed participating in rodeos as a calf roper and eventually transitioned to raising and racing Thoroughbred horses. He was past president of the Pine Bluff Saddle Club and member of the Arkansas Thoroughbred Association. Jim's greatest love was his family. His daughter Tammy and grandsons Jordan and Jaret were his pride and joy. Jim and his wife, Jo Ann, had a small business where they traveled to markets in several states making friends along the way and enjoying the journey together. He was the second oldest member of Greenlee Baptist Church, where he gave his life to Jesus. Jimmy is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jo Ann Spharler Bussey; daughter, Tamara Ann Jacobs and husband Keith of Bryant, Arkansas; sister, Priscilla Hagan and husband Robert of Pine Bluff; grandchildren, Jordan Paul Jacobs and Jaret Warren Jacobs of Bryant; and a multitude of friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, J. R. Bussey of Cary, Mississippi. The family will receive friends for visitation at Ralph Robinson & Son, Tuesday, November 15 from 5-7 p.m. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, November 16 at 10:30 a.m. at Greenlee Baptist Church to celebrate Jim's life. A graveside service will be held at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander, Arkansas following the church service. Memorials requested to Greenlee Baptist Church or Arkansas Baptist Children's Home. Online register: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.