Graveside services celebrating the life of James Howard Townsend, Sr., 84, of Eros, Louisiana will be held at 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Roselawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery with Bro. Dale Mercer officiating.

The visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., Monday, April 6, 2026, in the chapel of Mulhearn Funeral Home in West Monroe, Louisiana.

James was born on August 21, 1941, in Alexandria, Louisiana and passed away peacefully at home on April 3, 2026.

James was a man whose talent, faith, and character left a lasting impression on everyone blessed to know him. A world champion in horseshoe pitching, he carried his remarkable skill with humility and joy, always ready to share the game he loved. His life was deeply rooted in his faith as a devoted member of Clark Springs Baptist Church, where he served with sincerity and a steady spirit. James will be remembered for his kindness, his quiet strength, and the legacy of dedication he leaves behind. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by family, friends, and all who knew him.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James and Nanny Townsend; and his beloved wife, Elizabeth Libbye Townsend.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Kathy D. Mercer and her husband, Brian; her son, Buz Townsend and his wife, Tasse; granddaughter, Ronda Richardson and wife, Brandy Neice; grandsons, Clif Richardson and wife, Heather Richardson, Josh Richardson, B.J. Townsend, Mark Townsend, and Matt Townsend; great-grandsons, Austen Rex Richardson and Kayden Neice-Richardson.

Pallbearers will be Tony Patton, Patrick Duck, Bobby Duck, Richard Albritton, Mike Chatham, and Lane Kincaid.