James Colton Blake Cumbie

ARITON…James Colton Blake Cumbie, a resident of Ariton, passed away, Saturday, July 19, 2025. He was 29.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Friday, July 25, 2025, in Pleasant Grove Baptist Church with Reverend David May officiating. Burial will follow in Leatherwood Cemetery. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends from 12:00 until 1:00 P.M. Friday at the church.

Blake was a native of Ariton, Alabama and graduated from Pike Liberal Arts School in Troy in 2014, where he made lasting friendships and memories that stuck with him through the years. After high school, Blake found his calling in welding, working in construction with a strong work ethic and a quiet sense of pride in what he built with his hands.

Blake had a big heart and an even bigger love for the Georgia Bulldogs. Football season was sacred—he never missed a game if he could help it, and he cheered on his team with the kind of passion that made Saturdays feel like holidays. Whether it was tailgating with friends, watching from home, or talking stats and plays, Blake was all in when it came to his Bulldogs.

When he wasn’t working or watching football, Blake found peace in the outdoors. He loved to hunt and fish—those quiet moments in the woods or by the water were where he felt most at ease. It wasn’t just about the sport; it was about being in nature, soaking in the stillness, and spending time with the people he cared about.

To his niece and nephews—Ella, Parker, and Pate—Blake was affectionately known as “Bubba.” And he wore that name like a badge of honor. He adored those kids and lit up whenever they were around. Whether he was teasing them, teaching them something new, or just being the fun

uncle, Blake had a special bond with each of them. They brought out the softest parts of him, and he gave them memories they’ll carry forever.

Blake was a former member of Hillcrest Baptist Church in Ozark, where he learned the values of faith, family, and community. Those lessons stayed with him throughout his life, reflected in the way he treated others—with kindness, respect, and a quiet generosity.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Jim and Marie Searcy Cumbie, who no doubt welcomed him with open arms.

Blake’s life was a beautiful mix of simple joys, strong character, and deep love for the people around him. He may have been quiet at times, but his presence spoke volumes. He will be remembered not just for the things he did, but for the way he made others feel—valued, loved, and truly seen.

Blake leaves behind a family who loves him dearly, including his parents, mother, Tina Beasley (Drew), father, Chris Cumbie (Erica); sister, Chelsi Niday (Chris); brother, Gage Cumbie (Graci); niece and nephews, Ella Morgan Babb, Parker Niday, and Pate Niday; aunt, Andrea Baxter; uncles, Danny Cumbie, Jason Leatherwood, and Brad McLaughlin; grandparents, Colon Leatherwood (Becky) and Jerry Knighton (Jasper); several cousins.

Serving as active pallbearers will be Chris Cumbie, Danny Cumbie, Gage Cumbie, Chris Niday, Jason Leatherwood, and Kaden Baxter.