09/26/2026
What a blessing for our church that we had Jim for a shepherd.
Dear Regional Family,
Upon hearing today of the transition to eternal peace of our beloved Rev. James (Jim) Bussell, a former member of our Regional staff, I am heartbroken.
Jim’s love for God, the Church, and humanity ran deep. Over the years, he became more than a faithful servant of our Region—he became an embodiment and keeper of much of our history.
Jim retired after more than 50 years in ministry—a remarkable testimony of faithfulness, endurance, and devotion to God’s call. Yet retirement did not mean stepping away from the Church he loved. Jim continued to offer his wisdom, experience, and presence wherever he believed they could serve the greater good.
For many years, Jim served as editor of The North Carolina Christian, our quarterly Regional magazine that circulated to more than 2,000 Disciples. Through his careful work, the magazine became an invaluable resource, keeping our congregations informed, connected, and engaged in the shared life and ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in North Carolina, as well as the denomination.
Jim also faithfully served as a member of our Regional Historical Committee, helping us retrieve, preserve, and better understand important pieces of our Regional history. His knowledge and institutional memory were gifts to us. Jim understood that knowing where we have been helps us appreciate who we are and informs where God may be calling us next.
Jim’s commitment to the Church transcended distance, age, and even the challenges of his own health. He continued to serve and share his gifts long after it might have been easier—or certainly understandable—to step away. That was Jim: faithful, knowledgeable, funny, smart, dedicated, and always willing to offer what he knew for the good of the Church he loved.
I had the privilege of meeting this wonderful brother when I joined the Regional staff. My own understanding of the history of the CCNC was greatly enriched by what I fondly remember as my “tutorial sessions” with Jim. He knew our story, and he generously helped me understand the people, places, relationships, and moments that shaped who we have become.
Today, I feel this loss deeply.
Yet, even in our grief, we give thanks to God for more than five decades of ministry, for a life faithfully lived, for wisdom generously shared, and for the lasting imprint Jim leaves upon our Regional Church and upon each of us who had the privilege of knowing him.
We extend our love, prayers, and deepest sympathy to Jim’s family and to all who loved him. May they be surrounded by the comforting presence of God in the days ahead.
Rest well, faithful servant. You served well. You loved well. You gave generously of yourself. We will miss you, Jim.
With a grieving yet grateful heart,
Bishop Valerie J. Melvin
Regional Minister & CEO
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in North Carolina