James R. Sandidge, Sr.

James "Jim" R. Sandidge, age 87, joined his wife Carol in the presence of the Lord on Wednesday, July 15th, 2026.

Jim was born in Virginia, his family moved to MS at an early age where he became a long-time resident of Gulfport. He joined the Marines at 18. Shortly after his enlistment ended he was working with the dolphins at Marine Life where he met the love of his life, Carol. He and Carol married and had 64 happy years together. They were blessed with 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren - He was proud to be called Pepaw and he loved his growing family. Jim worked hard to provide for his family and we will cherish the memories over the years of family time, holidays, trips, skeet shooting, dove hunting & fishing. He was always there for his family, watching out for us and willing to help - Jim could build and/or repair most anything.

Jim was a wholesale hardware salesman for over 40 years. Along with his wife Carol, Jim owned and operated the Circle S Western store in Gulfport for over 25 years until their retirement in 2004.

Jim loved riding horses, competing and winning awards in reining. He especially loved horseback riding trips with his wife Carol, trips to the Smoky mountains were a favorite.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Ladner Sandidge and his parents, Stella Lester Sandidge and Edward Sandidge.

Jim is survived by his children – daughter Beverly S. Dawsey (John), sons James R. Sandidge, Jr. (Rebecca) and Brian E. Sandidge (Carmen); his grandchildren – Travis Dawsey (Robin), Taylor Dawsey (Maddie), Bobbie Jean Price (Jake), Matthew Sandidge, Tyler Sandidge (Lauren), Wyatt Sandidge, Nina Sandidge Jenkins (Daniel); his great-grandchildren – Isaac Dawsey, Ethan Dawsey, Cayde Dawsey, Hannah Dawsey, Tucker Sandidge, Avery-Claire Sandidge; and many nieces and nephews some of who thought of him as another Dad.

Jim was dearly loved by his family and will be greatly missed.

A special "Thank You" to Robin Hughes Buch and her staff at Southern Living Assistance Services and St. Joseph Hospice for taking great care of Jim.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials be sent to Southern Living Assistance Services, 4011 Beatline Road Suite 1, Long Beach, MS 39560.

Visitation will be on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 9 - 10 am at the Riemann Family Funeral Home, 19130 Commission Road, Long Beach. A prayer service will be at 10 am in the chapel. Interment will be in Pine Ridge Gardens.