James F. “Jim” Arends, Jr. passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the age of 61.

Born on November 25, 1964, Jim was a graduate of Edisto High School in Cordova, South Carolina. He went on to work in maintenance alongside his father with Arends Mobile Home Park. He was someone who never met a stranger, and that easy warmth made him a familiar and welcome presence to many. Jim also enjoyed hunting and fishing, pastimes that brought him happiness and reflected his appreciation for time spent outdoors.

He is survived by his mother, Evelyn Arends; his son, Alex Arends; his daughter, Hayley Thomas, and her husband, Chris; his sister, Pam Davis; his nephew, Bradley Davis; and his niece, Kristie Eden. He will be remembered with love by his family and by all who were fortunate enough to know his friendly spirit.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, James “Jimmy” Arends, Sr.; his paternal grandparents, Andy and Ruby Arends; and his maternal grandparents, Furman and Mary Reeves.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, Inc., 1012 Whitman St SE, Orangeburg, SC 29115. Rev. Brian Self will be officiating.

Memorials in Jim's memory may be made to Ebenezer Baptist Church at 3144 Cordova Road, Cordova, S.C. 29039.

Jim’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.