James "Jim" R. Irvin

James R. Irvin, affectionately known as Jim, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026 following a hard fought battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Jim was born in Moore County Hospital on December 13, 1946 and grew up in Southern Pines. He was the son of James L. and Eleanor Irvin and the big brother to Jean Irvin, all of whom preceded him in death. He graduated from Southern Pines High School and went on to East Carolina, graduating with a degree in business. Jim was recruited just out of college into the management training program with Sears where he worked for a number of years. He then transitioned into the corporate world of food distribution, running distribution centers for Hardee’s Food Systems and then Burger King up and down the East Coast.

Jim returned home to Southern Pines in 1989 and entered the restaurant supply business for a few years. He then branched out to open The Cook’s Choice in downtown Southern Pines, where he became a fixture. He and Steven then opened Red Door, also in downtown Southern Pines. Jim served as president of the Southern Pines Business Association for many years and was instrumental in getting the historic lamp posts and street signs installed as well as implementing the Christmas trees along the streets, which is still a tradition today.

Jim leaves behind a loving husband and soulmate of 30 years, Steven Graves, two fur babies Mouse and Maci, a special sister-in-law, Geraldine Herring, a loving niece, Brooke, and her son Tristan who loved his Uncle Jim, and a loving nephew, Brandon. He also leaves three first cousins, Scott Bowers of Southern Pines, Tom Edwards of Charlotte and Jeff Edwards of Seattle along with a village of friends namely the Wilson, Reid, Marsh and Williams families, who have been so loving and supportive over the years.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made in his memory to the FirstHealth chapter of “Rock Steady”- a group which became family and provided not only exercise classes but camaraderie, support and comfort; c/o FirstHealth Foundation, 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374.

Online condolences may be made at: PinesFunerals.com.