In Memoriam: James Fox

The SCBDA extends their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of James Fox, a former band director in South Carolina.


James William Fox, a resident of Travelers Rest, SC, passed away on April, 3rd, 2022, at the age of 62. He was the husband of Melissa Fox. They shared nearly 42 years of marriage.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Chad (Kasi) and Katie; grandchildren, Mac, Cal, Parks, and Eva; and his siblings, Steve Fox and Marsha Robertson. James loved his family dearly.

He was born in Hiawassee, GA to Billy and Louise Fox and spent his childhood in Gaffney, SC. He graduated in 1981 from Furman University in Greenville, SC.

Music was his life’s passion.

James had an esteemed career as a band director. One of his greatest accomplishments was developing the Blue Ridge High School Corps of Cadets to a championship marching band. Blue Ridge won three state championships under his leadership. His students would tell you he commanded excellence.

He also served as a music minister for over 40 years at several churches in Upstate South Carolina, most recently at Mountain Hill Community Church in Landrum, SC.

James is loved by so many, and the impact he made on family, friends, co-workers, and his students is immeasurable.

He will be remembered for his friendly personality, selflessness, and ability to share countless laughs.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all that knew him.

A memorial service celebrating James’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 9, 2022, at Taylors First Baptist Church, 200 W. Main St., Taylors, SC 29687. There will be no public visitation prior to the memorial service, but please join the family to show your love and support.

Melissa, Chad, and Katie invite you to leave uplifting memories of James by clicking on the button labeled “Leave A Message, Share A Memory” below.  A physical guestbook will also be available to sign at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Northwest Chapel beginning Wednesday, April 6, 2022, for those unable to attend the service on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, the Fox family kindly requests family and friends send memorial donations to the Hospice and Palliative Care Foundation, P.O. Box 151, Drayton, SC 29333, www.hpcfoundation.org, and Pickens County Meal on Wheels, 349 Edgemont Ave., Liberty, SC 29657, pcmow.org.