James Edward LaGrone, Jr.

James Edward LaGrone, Jr., age 20, of Centreville, Alabama, passed away on August 30, 2026. He was born on July 17, 2006.

Known to everyone as “Jay,” he was also affectionately called “Jay Bird,” “Jay Boy,” and simply “Bird.” Jay was one of a kind. He never met a stranger and had a way of making people feel like they had known him forever. He loved his family and friends deeply and was loved by so many in return.

Jay lived life to the fullest. He was a hard worker who took pride in what he did. He worked for Vulcan Industries as a Pipefitter, where his dedication and work ethic were evident to those around him.

Jay was an athlete and loved playing sports during his time at Maplesville High School. Football was his favorite, but he also enjoyed playing basketball and baseball. Although he may have been small in stature, Jay could certainly deliver a mighty blow on the football field. His determination, toughness, and competitive spirit were much bigger than his size.

Outside of work and sports, Jay loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, riding four-wheelers, and boating, and he loved spending time doing the things he enjoyed with the

people he cared about.

More than anything, Jay will be remembered for the way he lived and the way he loved. His infectious personality, his willingness to help others, his hard-working nature, and his ability to make friends wherever he went will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

Although Jay’s life was far too short, his legacy will continue in a remarkable way. Through his decision to be an organ donor, Jay will give the gift of life to others. His final act of generosity will allow a part of him to live on by helping save and improve the lives of others.

Jay’s memory will forever be cherished by his family, friends, former teammates, coworkers, and all who were blessed to know him. Jay Bird may be gone from our sight,

but he will never be gone from our hearts.

Fly high, Jay Bird. Your life made a difference, and your legacy will live on.

Jay is preceded in death by his brother, Dustin LaGrone; grandparents, Marlon LaGrone  (Irma); grandfather, Bryan Bracknell; great-grandfather, Billy Tucker; great-grandmothers, Tootie Alexander and Shirley Briscoe.

His surviving relatives include his loving daughter, Baylor Kate Cummings; brothers, Kameron Scott Lang and Jake LaGrone; sisters, Adalyn Grace and Jamey LaGrone; parents, James LaGrone (Aleshia); mother, Kamey Bracknell; grandparents, Tamey Briscoe (Chuck); great-grandfathers, Larry Bracknell and Ronnie Alexander; great-mother, Joan Tucker; uncles, Kyle Johnston (Lauren) and Kannon Johnston (Jennifer); aunts, Ashley Briscoe Shirley (Michael) and Latosha Briscoe Underwood (Cody).

Funeral Services for Jay will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at the One Church (Johnston Family Life Center) in Brent, Alabama. Jay’s time of visitation will start from 10:30 a.m. until time of his service at 12 noon. Officiating his services will be Mike McMillan and Butch Tucker. Burial will follow in the Antioch Cemetery in Centreville, Alabama.

Jay’s family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this time. Pallbearers will be Coty Stewart, Kannon Johnston, Kyle Johnston, Will Harrison, Trey Miles, Brooks Cooner, Andrew Miles, and Brady Harrison.