It is with utmost respect, we announce the passing of Mr. James Ardley, Sr., 89, of Crawfordville, Florida, who departed this earthly life on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

Viewing-visitation will be 4:00 -6:00 p.m., Friday, June 5, 2026, at the TILLMAN OF TALLAHASSEE CHAPEL (850-942-1950).

Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Holy Temple COCWIH, 6882 Hugh Road, Tallahassee, FL 32309, with burial to follow in Indian Branch Cemetery.

All resolutions may be sent to: tillmanfh1931@gmail.com

James Ardley, Sr. was born on December 24, 1936 in Leon County, Florida. He was one of nine children born to Ned and Lee Ella “Honey” Leon Ardley. He was predeceased by his wife: Mary Ardley; parents; and siblings: Viola, Ida, Richard, Mary, Ned, Larry, Lucinda and Ann.

James was the legacy of his whole family. He attended Rainey School until he had to stop to help take care of the family at the age of 12. Later, he started landscaping, then to auto body and painting at Maner Garage for over 40 years, until retirement. He also owns his own paint and body shop. After retirement, James worked at Research Extension Center “FAMU Farm” until he couldn’t work anymore. His passion was training and riding horses.

Many years ago, James accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior at St. Peter Primitive Baptist Church. He later joined Holy Temple Church of Christ Written In Heaven.

James was known by “Sonny Boy”, “Bear”, “Scobie” and “Capital City Huggy Bear”. He loved being with his family and looking sharp from head to toe at all times. From his first marriage, James had five children and four from his previous marriage.

On Thursday, May 21, 2026, God Almighty summoned James Ardley, Sr. Home for his sternal rest. He leaves to cherish precious memories, his children: Margaret Ardley, Tallahassee, FL, Marshall (Pastor Clarence) Smiley, Bainbridge, GA, Margie (Deacon Patrick) Davis, Lee Ann Dennis Ardley, both of Tallahassee, FL, James (Nicole) Ardley, Jr., Orlando, FL, Aisha (Willie) Miller, Crawfordville, FL, Fredrick Ardley and Keisha Ardley, both of Tallahassee, FL; 29 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great grandchildren; sister-in-law: Florence Sanchez of Sebring, FL; brother-in-law: Alex Williams of Hawthorne, FL; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

It is our esteemed honor to have been entrusted with the care of Mr. Ardley and to serve the Ardley family.