James Elmer Savage Sr., age 78, passed away Friday, May 20, 2011 Born in Pitt County on September 22, 1932, he was the son of the late David C. Savage and Rowena Rawls Savage. He was also preceded in death by three sisters, Velma Dutcher, Josephine Williamson and Gladys Forbes; and two brothers, David Savage and Donald Ray Savage.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Joyce Raynor Savage; sons, James E. Savage Jr. (Deborah) of Rocky Mount, Charles D. Savage (Donna) of Rocky Mount, Joseph R. Savage (Melissa) of Nashville, Donald W. Savage (Kimeka) of Rocky Mount, Michael O. Savage (Kristen) of Greenville; and Donald W. Savage Jr. of Greenville; sister, Joyce Ann Finch of Rocky Mount; brother, Earl Savage of Reidsville; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

The family received friends and relatives 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Saturday, May 21, 2011 at Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home. A service to remember Elmer was held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Mike Edwards and Rev. Steve Kirkland officiating. Burial followed at Pineview Cemetery.

Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 930-B Wellness Avenue, Greenville NC 27834.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home, Rocky Mount.