James Madison Mullenax

James Madison Mullenax, age 81, of Staunton, passed away Thursday, February 26, 2026 at River Edge Rehabilitation and Nursing in Waynesboro.

He was born September 7, 1944 in Blue Grass, a son of the late Ray and Thelma Gertrude (Mullenax) Mullenax.

A Christian, Mr. Mullenax was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, where he was baptized and faithfully attended. In 2004, he retired from Lofton Corporation following 22 years of employment. James enjoyed time spent mowing grass, working on vehicles, cutting firewood, and playing his guitar. Additionally, he will be remembered as a jack-of-all-trades who could do anything. Above all, he was a wonderful father and provider; simply put, he was “everything a dad should be.”

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Glenn Mullenax; as well as a special friend, Elizabeth Waybright.

He is survived by his daughter, Annette Breeden and husband, Arlen of Middlebrook; step-son, Michael Hupman and wife, Renee of Staunton; his sisters, Phyllis McKee of Clinton, NC and Harriet Smith of Staunton; nieces, Jeannie Rexrode, Pam Brown, and Paula Mullenax; as well as nephews, Seth Smith, David McKee, and Nathan McKee.

A funeral service will be held 2 p.m. Sunday, March 1, 2026 at Obaugh Funeral Home in McDowell with Rev. Bobby Campbell officiating. Burial will follow in Union Chapel Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be family and friends in attendance.

Memorial contributions may be made to Union Chapel Cemetery, c/o Alan Puffenbarger, 351 Forks of Water Road, Monterey, Va. 24465.