James Ricky Westmoreland, age 67, of Murphy, NC passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 19, 2024, surrounded by close family and friends, who will forever cherish his memory. James was born on July 21, 1957 in Copperhill, TN to Winston and Helen Westmoreland. He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Westmoreland, and two special nephews, Brian Waters and Anthony Deal.

James is survived by his loving canine companion, Kudjo; son, Jamie Westmoreland of Murphy, NC; daughter and son-in-law, Stephanie and Chad Deal of McCaysville, GA; granddaughters, Kaelyn (Zach) Cox of Atlanta, GA, and Josalyn Deal of McCaysville, GA; father, Winston Westmoreland of Murphy, NC; brother, Randy (Tammy) Westmoreland of Murphy, NC; sisters, Audrey Westmoreland of Murphy, NC, Patricia (Jeff) Deal of Grassy Creek, TN and Sharon Davenport of Murphy, NC; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were conducted on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM from the Akins-Cobb of Copperhill Chapel with Rev. David O'Neal officiating. Music was provided by Kenny O'Neal. Interment followed in the Westmoreland Family Cemetery on Wolf Creek Road in Murphy, NC. Pallbearers were Nicky Hampton, Eddie Hampton, Ducie Waters, Anthony Watkins, Isaiah Newman,Gavin Hampton, Riley Newman and Ben Watkins. Honorary Pallbearers were Randy Westmoreland, Chad Deal, Christopher Cole, and Larry Hawkins. The family received friends at the funeral home on Saturday, September 21, 2024 from noon until 2:00 PM.

Condolences may be made to the family online at www.akinscobb.com. Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Copperhill was in charge of the arrangements.