James Alexander McLaurin, 77, of Columbia, passed away on Friday, March 15, 2024. Born in Bennettsville, South Carolina, on October 22, 1946. He was a son of the late Edward Duncan McLaurin, Sr., and Mabel Campbell McLaurin. He was the loving husband of 51 years to Inez Hubbard McLaurin.

Mr. McLaurin was a proud veteran and served in the United States Air Force. He graduated with honors and earned his bachelor's degree from Francis Marion University. Mr. McLaurin had a passion for journalism and worked for The State Newspaper as a sports journalist. He was a member of the SC Press Association, the International Hot Rod Association, and National Motorsports Press Association. Mr. McLaurin won Writer of the Year with both the IHRA and NMPA. He was author or co-author of several books about racing, including Nascar's Top Ten and Then Junior said to Jeff. After retiring, he edited books for others. He was a skilled craftsman who loved spending time in his workshop, mainly making birdhouses.

In addition to his wife, survivors include his children Jay McLaurin (Angela) and Marianne Carter (Ryan); grandchildren, Ruby McLaurin, Lauchlin McLaurin, Griffin Carter, and Logan Carter. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers, Edward Duncan McLaurin, Jr., Archie Clarence McLaurin, and George Lauchlin McLaurin.

The Graveside Service for Mr. McLaurin will be held at 2 o'clock on Wednesday, March 27th, at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carolina Presbyterian Church, 4446 Carolina Church Road, Little Rock, SC 29567.