James “Jimmy” Lanning
James Floyd Lanning, affectionately known as “Jimmy,” passed away peacefully on June 12, 2025, in Fletcher, North Carolina, at the age of 72. Born on April 9, 1953, in Charleston, South Carolina, Jimmy lived a life full of passion, hard work, and unwavering devotion to his family.
A proud graduate of East Henderson High School, Jimmy dedicated 40 years of his life to the craft of tool and dye making.
His career was marked by over 25 years at GE in Hendersonville, where he honed his skills and impacted many through his expertise and camaraderie. Jimmy’s life was a testament to the joys of the great outdoors. Whether fishing, attending tractor shows, or horseback riding, he found happiness under open skies. Above all, his true joy came from “family get-togethers,” where laughter and love flowed freely.
Preceded in death by his parents, Glenn Ray Lanning and Katherine Lee “Leo” Justus Randall, as well as his sisters, Katrina Lanning and Evelyn Lanning, Jimmy’s memory will continue to inspire those who survive him. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 53 years, Rebecca “Susie” Lanning, who stood by his side through every adventure. His legacy continues through his daughter, Kelly Phipps and her husband, Daniel; his son, James Lewis Lanning; and his cherished grandchildren, Katie Radick, Madeline Austin and her husband, Wesley, Jonas Welch, and Echo Phipps. His great-granddaughter, Melody Austin, will carry forward his spirit of resilience and joy. Jimmy is also survived by his brother, Glenn Lanning.
A Memorial Service honoring Jimmy’s life will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 2:00 PM in The Kirby Memorial Chapel of Shuler Funeral Home, officiated by Pastor Tommy Justus. Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in Jimmy’s memory to the Blue Ridge Humane Society, 1214 Greenville Highway, Hendersonville, NC 28792. Though he will be deeply missed, Jimmy’s legacy of kindness, strength, and love lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. Shuler Funeral Home has the honor of serving the family.