Tributes

James (Jimmy) Daniel Haynes, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and humble servant of the Lord, peacefully entered into the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Monday, January 27, 2025, just two days shy of his 79th birthday. Born in Greensboro, North Carolina, Jimmy was the beloved son of the late Rev. Howard H. Haynes and Irene Mitcham Haynes. A man of unwavering faith, dedication, and kindness, Jimmy spent 25 years working at Duke Power, where he built a foundation of integrity and hard work. Driven by his passion for craftsmanship and service, he and his wife, Brenda, co-founded Advantage Builders of Greenville, Inc., leaving behind a legacy of custom-built homes that grace the Greenville area. Beyond his professional achievements, Jimmy answered the call to serve his community as a volunteer firefighter with the Taylors Fire Department, exemplifying a life of selflessness and care for others. A lifelong member of the Church of the Nazarene, Jimmy faithfully served in countless roles, including as a Board Member and a dedicated leader within the local NMI (Missions) Council. On a broader scale, his heart for ministry shone brightly as he served the South Carolina Nazarene District as Lay Retreat Director, District Advisory Board member, and District Work and Witness Coordinator for over 21 years. During this time, Jimmy organized and led approximately 35 mission teams across the globe, embodying the love of Christ in both word and action. Jimmy’s commitment to global missions extended to the General Church of the Nazarene, where he served as both General Assembly Delegate and NMI Delegate. From 2011 to 2015, he and Brenda answered God’s call as volunteer missionaries in Eswatini (Swaziland). There, they worked tirelessly as Work and Witness Coordinators for Southern Africa Nazarene University, hosting 17 mission teams from the United States and ministering to AIDS orphans. Their work touched countless lives and reflected their unwavering dedication to sharing God’s love with the world. Jimmy lived life with passion and joy, embracing his love for adventure, family, and the simple pleasures of life. He had a deep appreciation for classic cars, especially Corvettes, and enjoyed restoring and admiring them. He found great joy in piloting his single-engine airplane, soaring through the skies with a sense of freedom and wonder. He also loved golfing, spending many happy days on the course with friends and family. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed 4-wheeling on trails and cherished quiet, relaxing moments at the beach, soaking in the beauty of God’s creation. Above all, nothing brought him greater fulfillment than his role as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Whether camping, attending his grandchildren’s events, or simply sharing his wisdom and humor, Jimmy poured boundless love and care into the lives of those he held dear. Jimmy is survived by his devoted wife and partner in life and ministry, Brenda O’Neal Haynes; his loving sons, Kim Haynes, Daniel (Mary Beth) Haynes, and Jason (Ashley) Haynes; and his treasured grandchildren, Nic Haynes, Rebekah Haynes, Ella Grace Haynes, Barrett Haynes, and Kellen Jolley. He is also survived by his brothers, Bill (Joetta) Haynes and David Haynes; sister-in-law, Terry (Jimmy) King; brothers-in-law, Dave Smith and Steve (Anne) O’Neal; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever cherish his memory. Jimmy is predeceased by his sisters, Patsy Raisor, Rachel Tanner, Naomi Smith, and Sister-in-law, Patricia Haynes. A visitation to honor and celebrate Jimmy’s extraordinary life will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:15 PM at Greenville First Church of the Nazarene, 1201 Haywood Road, Greenville, SC 29615. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Living Water Fellowship Church of the Nazarene, or to support the AIDS orphans in Eswatini, Swaziland, a cause dear to Jimmy’s heart. Donations can be sent to 1301 South Main Street Greer SC 29651. Additionally, anyone who had the privilege of traveling with Jimmy on a mission team is encouraged to wear their team shirt to the service in his honor. This service will also be live-streamed on YouTube “GFN church” and on the church website “gfnchurch.org”. Jimmy Haynes lived a life of faith, humility, and generosity, always putting others before himself and glorifying God in all he did. His legacy of love, service, and joy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tributes

Mr. James (Jimmy) Daniel Haynes

January 29, 1946 - January 27, 2025