James Edward “Jaybyrd” Hemphill

James Edward JayByrd Hemphill, of Rock Hill, South Carolina, transitioned on July 26, 2025, at Wayne T.

Patrick hospice house. James was born on April 2, 1950, in Greensboro, North Carolina, he was the son of Rosa Lee Hemphill and James Bailey, both of whom preceded him in death.

A graduate of Alfred E. Smith High School in the Bronx, New York, James-affectionately known as

"JayByrd"-was a skilled craftsman whose talents in carpentry and painting brought new life to countless spaces. Whether restoring the worn or building anew, his hands worked with care and quiet precision.

Fishing offered James a peaceful retreat. Time spent by the water with a rod in hand provided moments of reflection and calm that balanced his steady work ethic.

He is remembered with love by his wife, Dorothy Williams-Hemphill; daughters Shaquanna Jeter and Jamarra Hemphill; sons Darron Williams Sr. and Darnell Williams; daughter-in-law Lashawn Williams; grandchildren Darron Williams Jr., Donovan Williams, Janiya Williams, Chad Jeter Jr., and Kalaya Jeter, Carmalee Vasquez, Seciley Vasquez, Forevah McCrimmon, Kashaun Vasquez, Mickel McCrimmon; and great-granddaughter Nova Williams, and a host of relatives and friends.

James Edward JayByrd Hemphill leaves behind a legacy shaped by craftsmanship and quiet strength.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.