James Arnez Carlton

Mr. James Arnez Carlton was born on July 27, 1962, and passed peacefully into eternal rest on September 13, 2025, in Portal, Georgia.

James was a man who enjoyed working with his hands. He found great joy in fixing cars, doing carpentry work when he was able, and, above all, spending time with his family. His love for family and the simple pleasures of life defined his character and left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mattie B. Wright and Johnny Horne, and three brothers, Mark Hendrix, John Kelly Adkins, and Raybon Smith.

He leaves to cherish his memory his sister, Thelma Byrd of Statesboro, Georgia; his brothers, Mike Smith of Portal, Georgia, and Elmo Smith of Statesboro, Georgia; his sisters-in-law, Amie Smith and Christine Boykin both of Statesboro, Georgia, and Jenny Adkins of Jasper, Florida; and his special cousin, Barbara (Henry) Crawford of Statesboro, Georgia. He is also survived by a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Though James has departed this life, his spirit, his smile, and his love for those closest to him will remain forever in the hearts of his family and friends.

Public viewing for Mr. Carlton will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 from 2:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. The family will receive visitors for the family visitation from 6:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

Funeral services for Mr. Carlton will be held graveside at 1:00 P.M., Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Bethel A.M.E. Church Cemetery, Hwy 292, Collins, GA 30421.

The family will meet back in Statesboro at the home of Ms. Thelma Byrd for a private repast following the services.

Matthew H. Lovett & Son's Funeral Home, LLC is in charge of final arrangements.

Family and friends may sign the online register book, express online condolences, send flowers or other memorial gifts via our website.