James Alfred Dedge, Sr. passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, at Suwannee Valley Nursing Home after a lengthy illness.

James was born on December 5, 1944, to Walter and Ethel Dedge. He lived his entire life on the family farm in rural Hamilton County. He enjoyed the quiet of country living and spent many hours working, hunting and fishing on that property. He worked for the Hamilton County Road Department for 36 years before retiring. He was a charter member of the Hamilton County Mounted Posse and took great pride in serving the community. On June 25, 1965, he married the love of his life, Julie. They shared 60 years of marriage, building a life and raising a family on the family farm.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Walter F. and Ethel G. Dedge; his sister Shirley and brother-in-law Charlie Otto; his brother Gary and brother-in-law Virgil E. Law, Sr.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Julie; his children Jeneice (Brian) O’Connor, James Jr. (Lisa) Dedge; his sister Becky Law; his sister-in-law Mary Dedge and his grandchildren Kyle Dedge; Shelby (Brandon) Johnson and Marcus O’Connor. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and a host of close friends.

The family will hold a private memorial at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Haven Hospice of Lake City, Florida.