Mr. James Earl "Shorty" Covington of Little Rock, Miss., passed away on Oct. 14, 2020, at Baptist Health Systems in Jackson, Miss., at age 78.

Private graveside services will be held at Antioch Baptist Church with burial in the church cemetery with Dr. J. R. Eaton officiating. McClain-Hays Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Carolyn Rigdon Covington; two sons, Robert Covington (Ben), and Stanley Covington (Valerie); one daughter: Belinda Johnson (Mike); two sisters, Jewel McWilliams and Joyce Covington. He had three grandchildren whom he adored: Brandi Covington Hansford (Tyler), Phillip Johnson (Jailine), and Cole Johnson. He also had two great-grandchildren, Camryn Hansford and Cora Johnson; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Clyde Covington; four sisters: Winnie Jackson, Katie Gills, Iris Beech, and Vera McRoy; four brothers: Dwight Covington, Henry Covington, Barney Covington, and Lamar Covington.

Mr. Covington retired from Georgia Pacific after 38 years. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family. He was a humble man who believed in treating everyone with respect. Known for his wit and sly personality, he loved to laugh and smile. He loved his God, his church, and his family. He will be greatly missed, but his family rejoices in knowing that he has new life in the presence of Jesus for eternity.

Pallbearers are Cole Johnson, Chuck Butler, Dwayne Butler, David Butler, Mike Miller, Virgil Rigdon, Tyler Hansford and Mike Johnson.