James C. “Jim” Fields

James C. “Jim” Fields, 81, of Manila, died early Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022, at St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro. Jim was born Aug. 17, 1941, in Myrtle, Miss., to the late Tat and Johnnie Boatner Fields. Following the unexpected death of his father at a very young age he was raised by his mother along with the help of his brother, Gene. Gene made personal sacrifices so Jim could attend school and play basketball. After graduating high school he went to work for Fred’s dollar store in West Memphis where he met the love of his life, Sue Grable. Jim and Sue moved to Manila in 1975 when they bought F&F Grocery. In the years to come Jim owned several area restaurants and other businesses including TJ’s Convenience Store, the Log Cabin, and most notably J&J Circle Inn for 35 years. They made many new friends and relationships that have endured over the years. Many area youths and young adults began their working lives at the Circle Inn and were considered as family. Jim enjoyed having coffee with all the regular coffee drinkers each morning and afternoon, the Saturday morning breakfast crew, and later in life sitting on the porch, waving and visiting with neighbors. When his health allowed he loved watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren participate in sporting events. His family was his world and his greatest blessing. Late in life he still wanted the kids to call when they made it home, safe and sound. Waiting in Heaven for Jim’s arrival are his parents; one brother, Gene; a stillborn sister; and his beloved son, “Little Jim.” He was a member of the Milligan Ridge Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sue Grable Fields of the home; daughter, Michelle Veach (Tommy) of Lost Cane; son, Kelley Fields (Janet) of Manila; sister-in-law, Margaret Fields of Pontotoc, Miss.; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He also leaves two nieces, Kim Moore and Rhonda Kramer, of Pontotoc, Miss.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Howard Funeral Service Chapel in Manila with Rev. Mike Colvin officiating. Burial will follow at 3 p.m. in Crittenden Memorial Park in Marion where Jim will be laid to rest next to his son, “Little Jim.” The family will receive visitors Tuesday evening from 6-8 at the funeral home. Friends may sign the online guest register at www.HowardFuneralService.com.