James "Sonny" Justice

James L. “Sonny” Justice, Jr. went to be with his Lord and Savior on March 3, 2026. Born on January 6, 1943, in Spartanburg, Sonny was the son of the late James L. “Luke” and Myrtle Pollard Justice.

For more than 61 years, Sonny was the devoted husband of Judith “Judy” Brown Justice – his great love and lifelong partner. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and friendship. His greatest joy was time spent with his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Nothing made him happier than having his family gathered around him.

A 1961 graduate of Spartanburg High School, Sonny went on to serve his country proudly in the United States Navy. He served as a Master Sergeant 2nd Class and Admiral’s aide serving in the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and a Shriner. Sonny served as a deacon and Sunday School department director at Roebuck Baptist Church. He built a successful career as a General Contractor, became widely respected as a National Hall of Fame Wrestling Official, and was a long-time member of Three Pines Country Club. His larger-than-life personality left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Sonny loved life – fully and enthusiastically. Whether he was playing golf, fishing, cheering at Dorman High School football games, or traveling to discover new places, he embraced every moment. He traveled the country to horse shows and wrestling tournaments, seldom missing a competition or even a practice where his boys competed. Few men loved life more deeply or lived it more completely than Sonny Justice.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; his son, James L. “Jan” Justice, III (Jayma); his son, Joseph “Joey” W. Justice (Robin); grandsons, Thomas Justice (Amanda); Luke Justice; Joey Justice (Madison); granddaughter, Jules Justice (Jonathan); five treasured great-grandchildren and Alfonza Gonzales Rojas.

In addition to his parents, Sonny was preceded in death by his sister, Brenda McCullough, and his brothers, Allen C. “Butch” Justice and Rev. Jerry Justice.

Sonny will be remembered for his big heart, steady presence, contagious joy, and deep love for his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

In memory of Sonny, contributions may be made to Spartanburg Regional Hospice Home, c/o Spartanburg Regional Foundation, PO Box 2624, Spartanburg, SC 29304.