James "Jim" Lee Digby

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Lee "Jim" Digby, a beloved husband, father, brother, PaPaw, and dedicated Army veteran, who left us on February 5, 2026, at the age of 69. Born on August 19, 1956, in Farmerville, Louisiana, James spent his life in service to his country and his family, proudly calling DeRidder, Louisiana, his home.

James had a spirit that was bigger than life. He was a Command Sergeant Major in the U.S. Army, where he dedicated 30 years of his life, experiencing the brotherhood of countless deployments and serving in three combat zones. He was particularly proud of his time in Operations Just Cause, Operation Gothic Serpent, and Operation Uphold Democracy, as well as a few of his roles as a crew chief, flight engineer, and helicopter inspector. He also had eight years in Joint Special Operations Command. He loved sharing stories of his military adventures and was always ready to lift a friend's spirits.

Outside of his military career, James was a true family man. He adored his family and his grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he showed unwavering support for everything they did. Whether it was a family gathering, a fishing or hunting trip, or a day on the golf course, James thrived on being surrounded by loved ones. In his younger years, he enjoyed the thrill of bull riding, which often sparked animated conversations among friends and family.

James is survived by his loving wife of seventeen years, LeAnne Digby of DeRidder, LA; mother, Robbie Lipe of Elk City, OK, sons, Shawn Digby and Heather of DeRidder, LA, Bryan Digby and Tanya of Vilseck, Germany; sisters, Jean Bell and David of Elk City, OK, JoAnn Digby and David of Elk City, OK; sister-in-law, Carol Digby of Elk City, OK; grandchildren, Wyatt Digby, Sawyer Digby, Cheyenne Digby, Tucker Digby and Elizabeth Digby and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, family and friends.

James was preceded in death by his father, John Digby; stepfather, Clyde Lipe; brother, John Digby; his grandparents and a host of aunts and uncles.

James will be remembered not just for his service and dedication, but for the love he shared with everyone he met.

We invite all who knew and loved James to join us for a public viewing at Myers Colonial Funeral Home on Sunday, February 8, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. His funeral service will be held at the same location on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 10:30 AM, followed by burial at Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Leesville, LA at 12:30 PM. Pastor George Lee Glass will officiate the service. Those honored to serve as pallbearers will be Shawn Digby, Bryan Digby, David Bell, David Droke, Keith Campbell and Wyatt Digby. Honorary pallbearers will be Sawyer Digby, Cheyenne Digby, Tucker Digby, Landon Digby and Jack Digby.

Let us come together to celebrate the life of a man whose legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude’s or a charity of your choice.