Mr. James David Laney, 80, of Aberdeen, North Carolina (formerly of Charlotte) entered into eternal rest on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at UNC Health in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

James David Laney Sr. was called home to eternal rest on Saturday, May 30, 2026. He was born in Matthews, North Carolina, on June 13, 1945, to the late Ernest Howard and Mary Howard. At  the age of two, he was relocated to New York City, where he was lovingly raised by his aunt, the late Hattie Wesley, and the late Bruce Laney (Mattie).

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his son, James David Laney Jr., and his brother, Frederick Howard Sr.

James attended Samuel Gompers Industrial High School in Bronx, New York, and graduated in 1964. He enlisted in the US Army in 1965 and served until 1971.

He spent most of his life living in New York and New Jersey, where he built a successful career in telecommunications and information technology industries.

During his professional career, James worked for RCA and MCI Telecommunications as a Data Process System Technician. Through dedication, hard work, and a commitment to lifelong learning,  he earned numerous certifications and certificates in Information Technology and established a respected and successful career in the field. In December 2023, he moved to Aberdeen, North  Carolina and in 2024, he began working for the state of North Carolina as a contractor installing computers in state buildings, until his retirement.

James will be remembered for his intelligence, perseverance, and commitment to provide for his family. He touched the lives of many through his kindness, wisdom, and steady presence.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife, Wilma Laney; his daughters, Joy Faulkner (Eric) and Sheryl McDonald; his sons, Zolan Chapman and Lewis McDonald; his grandsons,  Christopher Mellerson, Steen Abdul Stacker, Rashawn Hooks, Deshaun Scantlebury, and Isiah Laney; his granddaughters, Lakesha Hooks and Charnell Hooks; nine great-grandchildren; two  sisters, Mary Frances Buchanan and Shirley Teasley (Lawrence); along with other family members, friends, and loved ones who will forever hold him in their hearts.

Though he has departed this earthly life, his legacy of love, strength, and dedication will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

Please keep the family and friends of Mr. James David Laney in your thoughts and prayers. 

In lieu of floral arrangements, consider a donation to United Negro College Fund https://uncf.org

Arrangements are entrusted to McLeod Funeral Home of Southern Pines, North Carolina.