James Roy Ensley, age 86, of Winder, GA, passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2024 at his home. He was born on January 9, 1938, in Keystone, WV, to the late Rev. Woodrow Roy Ensley and Grace Watkins Ensley. He was a member of Mt. Pleasant "Buckhorn" Baptist Church. He was a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite and member of the Decatur Lodge #723 F&AM. James served in the United States Army. He later retired from MARTA where he was a Rail Manager. After retirement, he worked as a transportation contractor for the 1996 Summer Olympics. He was an avid car enthusiast and loved his grandchildren.

James is preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Catherine Davenport.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Jewell Ensley; daughter, Deborah Lynn Ensley Blihovde of Lilburn, GA; grandchildren, Ashley Lynn Blihovde of Chamblee, GA and Brent Andrew Blihovde of Lilburn, GA; brothers, Kenneth Ensley and Benny Ensley; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service was held on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 2:00 PM from the Akins-Cobb Blue Ridge Chapel with Rev. Wallace Parks and Rev. Scott Baugh officiating. Music was provided by Linda and Ronald Hyde. Interment followed in the Ensley Family Cemetery. Pallbearers were Brent Blihovde, Shane Ensley, Davey Ensley, Eric Whitener, J.K. Davenport, Leon Watkins, Ronald Watkins, and Heath Davenport. Honorary pallbearer was Carson Smith. The family visited with friends at the funeral home on Thursday afternoon from 12:00 PM until the service hour. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.akinscobb.com.

Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Blue Ridge is in charge of the arrangements.