Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

April 2, 2025

CHARLOTTE - James “Jim” Wilburn Townsend Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on April 2, 2025, in Charlotte, NC, at the age of 86. Born on December 26, 1938, in Bennettsville, SC, Jim was the son of the late James Wilburn Townsend Sr. and Myrtle Spears Townsend.

Jim’s early years were shaped in Bennettsville, where he graduated from Bennettsville High School in 1955. He continued his education at Presbyterian College, earning a bachelor’s degree in 1961. On July 14, 1962, Jim married Jane Sanders of Laurinburg, NC, embarking on a loving partnership that spanned over six decades.

After college, Jim served in military intelligence for three years before joining Wachovia Bank in Charlotte, NC. In 1970, he relocated to Concord, NC, to work for Concord National Bank, where he dedicated much of his career until retiring in 1998. Following his retirement, Jim and Jane moved to Ocean Isle Beach, where they enjoyed many years of peaceful coastal living. In 2021, they moved to Sharon Towers in Charlotte, where Jim spent his final years surrounded by friends and family.

Throughout his life, Jim was an active and dedicated member of the Presbyterian Church. His faith was central to his life, and he proudly served both as a deacon and an elder, offering his time, wisdom, and support to his church community.

Jim’s greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He cherished family gatherings, sharing stories, and making memories at the beach. His love for life, his family, and his faith will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of over 62 years, Jane; son, Doug Townsend (Shannan); daughter, Jane Lynn Britton (Jeff); grandchildren, Spence Townsend (Elizabeth), Virginia Hanckel (West), Ashley Britton, and William Britton; and great-granddaughter, Catherine Hanckel.

The family will be holding a private service to celebrate Jim’s life.

Jim’s legacy of kindness, faith, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be greatly missed but forever remembered.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.